The Bureau of Libraries provides leadership, support, and oversight to Wisconsin’s network of more than 467 public libraries, 15 regional library systems, and school libraries, while also fostering connections and offering support for the state’s tribal, academic, and special libraries. The Bureau empowers libraries to best serve their communities by providing guidance, facilitating collaboration, acknowledging unique perspectives, and supporting innovation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Statewide Library Support: Overseeing and supporting the operations of regional public library systems and promoting collaboration, resource sharing, and consistent service standards across communities and libraries of all types and sizes.
- Library Development and Innovation: Providing guidance and professional development to library directors and staff in areas such as planning, inclusive services, youth engagement, digital literacy, resource sharing, and community outreach.
- Funding and Resource Allocation: Administering state and federal funds, including the Public Library System Aid and Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants, to support library operations, technology upgrades, and equitable access initiatives.
- Policy, Planning, and Data: Advising on public library policy and legislation, managing statewide library data collection and reporting, and supporting data-informed planning and decision-making.
Sections
- Library Development
- Library Technical Services