Public Libraries in WI
United States
Public Libraries in Wisconsin
Find public libraries across Wisconsin — hours, addresses, digital resources and free programs near you.
20
Cities Covered
20
Libraries Listed
Free
Library Cards
Wisconsin's public libraries are supported by the Division for Libraries and Technology, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and serve communities across the state. This directory covers 20 cities including Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Eau Claire, Beaver Dam, Beloit, Cambridge — with hours, addresses, phone numbers, and the free digital services available to Wisconsin residents.
Browse Libraries by City
More Wisconsin Libraries
⭐ Featured Library
Rio Community Library
One of the leading public libraries in Wisconsin, serving the local community with books, digital resources, programs and free Wi-Fi.
About Public Libraries in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has a strong network of public libraries serving communities of all sizes, from busy city systems to small rural reading rooms. Supported by the Division for Libraries and Technology, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, these libraries provide free access to books, digital resources, broadband internet, educational programs, and community gathering spaces for all residents.
Most Wisconsin public libraries offer free library cards to state residents and participate in statewide digital library programs, giving cardholders access to thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming films from home using apps like Libby (OverDrive).
Use the city directory above to find your nearest public library in Wisconsin, including current hours, contact information, and details on available services and programs.
📚 What Wisconsin Libraries Offer
- 📖 Books, DVDs, audiobooks & magazines
- 💻 Digital eBooks & audiobooks (Libby / OverDrive)
- 🎬 Streaming films (Kanopy or Hoopla)
- 📡 Free Wi-Fi & public computers
- 👶 Children’s storytimes & programs
- 🎓 Adult learning & literacy programs
- 📚 Interlibrary loan network
🗺️ Quick Facts
| Cities covered | 20 |
| Libraries listed | 20 |
| Digital platform | Libby / OverDrive |
| Streaming | Kanopy / Hoopla |
| Library card cost | Free for residents |
Free Digital Resources
📚 BadgerLink — Free for Wisconsin Residents
BadgerLink is Wisconsin's Online Library, provided by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and paid for with state funding so it is completely free for residents. Its 60-plus databases include full-text magazines and journals, newspapers, encyclopedias, reference books, images and video, genealogy research, and test-prep and auto-repair information.
🎫 New to the library in WI? See our step-by-step guide on how to get a library card — what you need, applying online, non-resident options and cards for kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Special services at Wisconsin libraries
Beyond books, many Wisconsin public libraries offer these services — browse the verified, up-to-date list for each: