About the Waukesha Public Library
The Waukesha Public Library is a 71,566 square foot facility located in picturesque Cutler Park in the geographic center of the city of Waukesha, Wisconsin. Established in a local home in 1896, the current location opened in 1904 as Wisconsin’s 16th Andrew Carnegie–funded library. Six additions and renovations followed, with the four most recent in 1988, 2005, 2010, and 2022.
2026 Feasibility Study
The Waukesha Public Library is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit interest from qualified consultants to develop a fundraising feasibility study proposal. The successful Firm/Consultant will provide expertise in determining the feasibility of running a successful capital campaign for the purpose of renovating and expanding the Library’s children’s space on the second floor.
Following completion of the feasibility study, the Library will determine whether to move forward with a capital budget request to the City of Waukesha, a capital campaign to raise private support and achieve the fundraising goal. If the feasibility study recommends a capital campaign, the Library Board of Trustees reserves the right at its sole discretion to continue with the selected Firm/Consultant or with another in planning, launching, and running such a campaign.
Use the link below to access the RFP.
Our Vision
The heart of a thriving city, the Library connects and inspires the community to transform lives.
Our Mission
Waukesha Public Library champions the power of reading and learning to enrich, empower and engage all in our community.
Service Values
The following service values guide our daily work and commit us to serve everyone in our community.
People
We believe the Library’s purpose is to be used and enjoyed by the people of the Waukesha area.
Community
We strengthen the community by collaborating with others, engaging in dialogue, and celebrating our history.
Creative discovery
We believe in fostering new ideas, both for the Library and for a thriving city.
Inclusivity
We strive to equitably serve everyone in our diverse community.
Civility and respect
We believe in open and polite dialogue, in intellectual freedom, and privacy for all.
Excellence
We hire the best staff and work to continually improve in order to meet the changing needs of our community.
Accountability
We meet our obligations and are responsible stewards of the community’s investment.
Passion
We know that the Library transforms people’s lives for the better.
Service Standards
We are People-Centered
We Celebrate Our Space
We are Consistent in Our Service
We Respect Each Other