10 Best Libraries For Kids in Greater Milwaukee (2026)

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As a parent, you know the value of taking your kids to the library – especially when you can find one nearby that’s designed with kids in mind. Not only does it encourage a love of reading, but it’s also a free, fun, and educational outing for the whole family.

In this post, we’ll introduce you to some of the best libraries in Milwaukee that you may not have visited yet. From secret gardens to climbable lighthouses, these libraries are designed to spark your child’s imagination and reignite your passion for reading.

💡Libraries are just one of many great free activities for families. Our 100 Best Things to Do in Milwaukee with Kids guide rounds up even more kid-friendly ideas across the city!

Quick Picks: Best Libraries for Kids Near Milwaukee

Short on time? These are the libraries families mention most often for kids.

• Best overall children’s library: Central Library (iconic kids’ room + lighthouse)
• Best for toddlers & preschoolers: Tippecanoe Library (cozy kids’ area + secret garden)
• Best hands-on spaces: Mitchell Street Library (maker space + large kids’ zone)
• Best modern neighborhood library: East Library (programming + welcoming design)
• Best newly renovated library: Martin Luther King Jr. Library (reopened 2025 with a makerspace and large community spaces)
• Best suburban libraries: Wauwatosa, Oak Creek, Menomonee Falls

Best Libraries for Toddlers & Young Kids

Central Library
A favorite for preschoolers and early elementary kids thanks to the dedicated children’s room with a climbable lighthouse, interactive features, and space to explore.

Tippecanoe Library
Especially great for toddlers thanks to its smaller, calmer children’s area and access to the Secret Garden during special events.

Wauwatosa Public Library
Known for its playful children’s room with train tables, puzzles, and a layout that works well for younger kids.

💡If your kids love browsing books in person, you might also enjoy our guide to the best children’s bookstores in Milwaukee.

1. Central Library

814 W. Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53233

Central Library is the crown jewel of Milwaukee’s public library system. Built in the 1890’s, it’s a stunning example of neo-renaissance architecture. The Rotunda at the entrance is one of the most striking features of the building. The cavernous space is filled with natural light and is connected to a grand staircase that leads to the upper levels of the library. Don’t miss the impressive mosaic floor underfoot.

The Betty Brinn Children’s Room at Central Library gives kids their very own separate area to explore. There’s a lighthouse to climb, plenty of cozy reading alcoves, dozen of computers, and special children’s book collections grouped together.

Our readers also love the used book store that is open on weekends!

2. Mitchell Street Library

906 W. Historic Mitchell St., Milwaukee, WI 53204

The Mitchell Street Branch is the largest of the Milwaukee Public Libraries, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Built in 1919 and renovated in 2017, the Mitchell Street Branch used to be home to Hills Department Store. It’s now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This architectural gem boasts massive decorative columns, ornate railings, and impressive terrazzo floors. You’ll find a bright and expansive space with a high-tech maker space, 3D printer, mixing booth, recording studio, a kitchen, an outdoor program space with raised gardens, laptops for checkout, a children’s collection, puppets, bilingual (English/Spanish) programming for all ages.

Our favorite part? The cozy reading area with a fireplace.

3. East Library

2320 N. Cramer St., Milwaukee, WI 53211

East Branch Library is one of more modern libraries in the system, with decorative glass panels, milled wood ceiling boards in a custom steels frame, and soothing lighting.

Outside, artist Ray Chi designed a leaping, circular sculpture that is at once art and a functional bike rack. He also built a living, growing sculpture of a serpent that winds along the ground and grows into a planted wall. Even the entrance of the library is unique, with outdoor seating that is inspired by the pebbles found on Lake Michigan.

The East Library offers family-friendly programming all year round, such as pajama story time and family yoga.

4. Martin Luther King Jr. Library (Newly Redeveloped)

📍 2901 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Milwaukee

The Martin Luther King Jr. Branch has reopened as a brand-new, modern library following a major redevelopment of the King Drive corridor. The new space officially opened in September 2025 and has quickly become one of the largest and most dynamic branches in the Milwaukee Public Library system.

The new library features a large community room, an expanded children’s area, and a makerspace with tools like a 3D printer. Designed as a true neighborhood hub, the building also incorporates green technology, including solar panels and geothermal energy.

Good to know for families:
This is now one of the city’s largest branches, with significantly more space and programming than the former building.

6. Bay View Library

2566 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53207
Website

The next time you find yourself in Bay View library, don’t miss the three mosaic maps in the entrance. Artist Peter Flanary created three mosaic maps that depict Bay View throughout history. You’ll find them on the linoleum floor of the lobby.

There’s also a children’s area in the library with toys, stuffed animals, computers, books, and more.

Menomonee Falls Library

Reader Reviews:

• “Huge, beautiful, kids artwork displays, tech game area, big puzzle exchange section, and big private rooms to sit in.”
• “Clean, cozy, so many options, friendly librarians, and a coffee shop!”

Oak Creek Library

Reader Reviews:

• “Giant light bright!”
• “Children’s section is adorable, adults section is quiet and relaxing, staff are great!”