Martin Luther King

Since 1971, this location has served the neighborhood as a place to learn, connect, and grow. Renamed in 1973 to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the branch has been a cornerstone of the community for more than fifty years. Now, a bold new chapter begins.

The new 17,400-square-foot Martin Luther King Branch is an $11 million investment supported by $6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, the city’s ARPA-backed Housing Trust Fund, Tax Incremental Funding (TIF) support, private grants, and other grants and loans. Fifth in a series of catalytic public/private projects to replace outdated branch libraries with new, 21st-century facilities, this branch is part of a mixed-use development that includes a 42-unit apartment complex—strengthening the King Drive corridor and anchoring neighborhood revitalization.

Inside, visitors will find a large community meeting space, flexible study rooms, a well-equipped makerspace, mobile food cart, and an updated collection of books and media. Green energy features include geothermal heating and cooling, rooftop solar panels, green roof, and infrastructure for EV charging stations, making this the greenest library in Southeast Wisconsin.

With ample space to serve the community, the new branch continues Milwaukee Public Library’s mission to build strong families, vibrant neighborhoods, and an engaged community, while honoring the enduring legacy of Dr. King.

Learn more about the history of the Martin Luther King Branch on the Now@MPL Blog.