Madison Public Library serves as a connector to many other organizations. Our partnerships are a key part of what makes our work possible, and we're able to offer many integral services to the community thanks to partnerships with non-profits, small businesses, government agencies, and others.
Madison Public Library is also home to several hallmark initiatives that go beyond our typical programming. Below, you'll find some of our lasting partnerships, annual outreach efforts, and ongoing initiatives.
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Foundational Partners
Madison Public Library Foundation
The Madison Public Library Foundation helps us build better libraries every day be providing funds for programs, staff development, equity and innovation projects, capital campaigns, technology, library collections and more.
Wisconsin Book Festival
Madison Public Library has been co-leading the Wisconsin Book Festival with the support of the Madison Public Library Foundation since 2013, hosting more than 75 author events each year.
City of Madison
The City of Madison provides the majority of funding for operations, programs, and services at Madison Public Library - primarily funded through property taxes through the General Fund.
Madison Reading Project
Since 2019, Madison Public Library and Madison Reading Project have worked together to impact the literacy landscape in Madison.
Go Big Read
Each year we purchase extra copies of UW-Madison's Go Big Read selection, as well as hosting book discussions and other events.
Wisconsin Film Festival
Ahead of the annual Wisconsin Film Festival, Madison Public Libraries host Sneak Peeks of the upcoming selections.
Forward Madison FC
Madison Public Library and Forward Madison FC work together to host the WE READ Youth Voices Writing Contest each year!
The Bubbler at Madison Public Library
The Bubbler at Madison Public Library is your place to learn, share, and create. The Bubbler leads art programming and outreach for Madison Public Library, including artist residencies and art exhibitions within our spaces.
Parents As First Teachers
This internal team at Madison Public Library provides early literacy materials, training, and resources to home-visiting organizations to support the role parents play as their child’s first teacher.
National Library Week
This annual celebration honors the contributions of libraries and library staff. Madison Public Library joins the celebrations each year with interactive displays and social media campaigns.
Teejop & Beyond: Celebrating Native Nations
In partnership with Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison, this annual program series celebrating Native nations takes place October - December across all nine Madison Public Library locations.
Library Takeover
An annual initiative where teams of 3-4 community members apply for funding, education, and support to host their own event at the library.
Live Well @ Your Library
A year-round event series incorporating mental, physical, and emotional wellness initiatives hosted by Madison Public Library.
Naturalist-in-Residence
Each summer a naturalist is selected from the Madison community to lead a 6-month nature residency taking place in libraries and parks across the city. In partnership with Madison Parks.
Seed Library
Eight Madison Public Library locations participate in giving away free seeds twice a year - no library card needed! Plus, we host accompanying gardening events to help your seeds thrive.
Pride Month
Our pride celebrations go beyond a single month! Find our LGBTQ+ Wellness Guide, book lists for all ages, and resources available year-round to support the LGBTQ+ community in Madison.
Black History & Juneteenth
During Black History Month in February and Juneteenth in June, Madison Public Library hosts special programs, film series, art exhibitions. You'll also find book lists and resources that are available year-round.
Hispanic Heritage Month
During Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15-October 15, Madison Public Library hosts events and activities celebrating Hispanic and Latino American culture. You'll also find book lists and resources that are available year-round.