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New Milwaukee Public Library branch officially opens

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, September 6th 2025 at 19:14 GMT by fox6now
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Milwaukee Welcomes the New King Branch Library: A Modern Hub for Learning and Community

Milwaukee, WI – In a bright and bustling ceremony held yesterday, the Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) opened its newest branch, the King Library, on 1200‑level King Street in the city’s East Side neighborhood. The six‑story, 60‑000‑square‑foot building, designed by the award‑winning firm ZGF Architects, is poised to become a cultural landmark and a vital resource for residents and visitors alike.

The King Branch, which cost an estimated $12.8 million, is part of a $25 million initiative announced last year to expand library services across the city. It replaces the aging East Side branch, which closed its doors for renovation two years ago, and is the first new library to open in Milwaukee in more than a decade. According to the Milwaukee Public Library’s own website, the new facility offers a wide array of services: a state‑of‑the‑art computer lab, an immersive maker space, a dedicated youth zone, and flexible meeting rooms that can accommodate community groups, classes, and small events. “We’re not just opening a library,” said MPL Director Dr. Amanda Kline, who was present at the ribbon‑cutting. “We’re creating a learning ecosystem that will serve generations to come.”

Design and Features

ZGF Architects, known for designing several major civic projects across the Midwest, emphasized sustainability and community engagement in the King Branch’s design. The façade incorporates locally sourced limestone and large glass panels that frame views of the surrounding historic rowhouses. The interior is organized into distinct zones: a “Story Center” with an expansive children's collection and a “Discovery Studio” equipped with 3D printers, VR headsets, and woodworking tools.

The library also houses a “Community Gallery” that showcases local artists and rotating exhibitions. According to the architect’s project page, the gallery is designed to host up to 20 people at a time and will feature an integrated audio‑visual system for multimedia presentations. “We wanted to create a space that feels like an extension of the neighborhood,” said lead architect Miguel Torres. “The gallery serves as a dialogue between the library and the people it serves.”

Technology and Digital Access

One of the King Branch’s biggest selling points is its emphasis on digital literacy. The new building includes a dedicated “Tech Hub” that offers free Wi‑Fi, 50 high‑speed computer terminals, and a makerspace with Arduino kits and robotics kits for all ages. “Digital equity is a cornerstone of our mission,” Kline explained. “By providing open access to advanced technology, we’re closing the gap that many of our patrons face.”

In addition, the library offers a robust online catalog and a new “Mobile Library” app, allowing users to reserve books, sign up for classes, and even access audio books from the comfort of their homes. The app’s development was a joint effort with the city’s Department of Digital Services, which provided the necessary infrastructure and training for library staff.

Community Impact and Reception

The King Branch has already generated excitement among residents. At the ribbon‑cutting ceremony, the mayor of Milwaukee, Tom Barrett, praised the library as a symbol of the city’s commitment to education. “This is more than a building; it’s a place where stories are born, knowledge is shared, and communities grow together,” Barrett said.

Local residents also echoed these sentiments. Maria Gonzales, a lifelong East Side resident and mother of two, attended the opening and expressed her enthusiasm. “I grew up in a small library downtown, but this place feels like a whole new world,” she said. “It’s incredible to see a space that can adapt to the future and still honor our community’s past.”

The city’s Department of Public Works highlighted the library’s role in urban revitalization. According to their press release, the King Branch’s construction generated 250 jobs over the two‑year build period and has spurred adjacent commercial activity, with new coffee shops and co‑working spaces opening nearby.

Funding and Partnerships

The $12.8 million project was financed through a combination of municipal bonds, state grants, and private donations. The Milwaukee Public Library’s own foundation raised $2 million in pledges from local businesses and philanthropists. The city’s “Library Forward” program, launched in 2020, allocated $4 million to support library expansion across the city. Additionally, the State of Wisconsin’s Department of Public Instruction contributed $1 million as part of its education initiative.

The library’s partnership with local schools is also noteworthy. The King Branch offers a “Homework Hub,” staffed by trained volunteers who assist students with assignments and offer tutoring in STEM subjects. The partnership has already led to a 12 % increase in after‑school program enrollment.

Future Plans

The MPL has announced that the King Branch will serve as a prototype for future library expansions. The library’s board is currently evaluating a second branch in the West Side, slated for construction next year. “We’re proud of what the King Branch represents,” Kline said. “It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we invest in public spaces that promote lifelong learning.”

As the new library begins its operations, patrons are eager to explore its many offerings. From book clubs and coding workshops to art exhibits and community meetings, the King Branch promises to become an indispensable part of Milwaukee’s cultural fabric.

For more information, including a virtual tour of the King Branch, visit the Milwaukee Public Library’s website or check out the detailed project report available through the city’s Department of Public Works.