Support

Support Milwaukee Public Library

With over 1 million visitors each year, the Milwaukee Public Library is a cornerstone of our community—where people come to read, learn, connect, and reach their full potential. Your support helps us expand access to knowledge, offer engaging programs, and preserve resources for generations to come. Whether you want to donate, volunteer, or give in another way, your generosity makes a difference.

Ways to Give

Make a Direct Gift

A financial gift to Milwaukee Public Library helps fund collections, services, and special programs. Direct gifts are managed through the Milwaukee Public Library Trust and Gifts Fund, ensuring your donation is used to support library priorities.

How to Give: Contact the Library Business Manager or mail a check made payable to Milwaukee Public Library.

Support Through MPL Foundation

The Milwaukee Public Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the library’s mission. Your gift to the Foundation supports library programming, collections, and capital improvements—helping MPL offer additional free programs and services to our community.

Ways to Give: Make a one-time or recurring donation, contribute stock or estate gifts, or explore additional support opportunities. Learn more at SupportMPL.org

Join the Friends of MPL

The Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library is a non-profit membership-based organization that provides additional financial support for the library through the bookseller and annual events.

Become a Friend: Join today to support MPL and connect with fellow library enthusiasts.

Donate Books & Materials

Have books or other materials to donate? The Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library accepts gently used books, DVDs, and CDs for resale at The Bookseller, with proceeds supporting the library. In some cases, donated materials may be considered for our collection.

Guidelines: We cannot accept items that are damaged, outdated, or previously discarded by another library. Donations of books, magazines, and DVDs are accepted. Must be in good condition, odor and mold-free.  For more information, LINK to the Bookseller website?

Donate to Special Collections

MPL’s Special Collections preserve rare, unique, and historically significant materials for research and public access. If you have books, manuscripts, photographs, or other archival materials that you believe may be a valuable addition, donations are considered on a case-by-case basis.

How to Give: Donations are reviewed by our collection specialists. If you are interested in donating, please contact our Library Services Manager for Acquisitions to discuss your materials.

Become a Volunteer

Looking for a hands-on way to give back? Volunteers play a key role in making the library an inviting and engaging space for all. From helping with neighborhood programs to assisting with special events, there are many ways to get involved.

Get Started: Learn more about volunteer opportunities and sign up today.