Large, Comfortable Work Spaces

The bright, airy, 5,568 square foot, two-story high Library Reading Room offers you a comfortable place to study or do research in one of the state's most grand architectural buildings. Ample study tables allow you to spread out your work. Each table has several outlets for laptops and other devices. Free Wi-Fi is available. The Library Reading Room is located on the 2nd floor of the Society.

The Archives Research Room offers a quiet place to review original documents and collections. The Archives Research Room is located on the 4th floor of the Society.

Technology

Computers

• Library: We offer 15 public computers. 1 in the Microforms Room, 2 in the Library Lobby and 12 in the Library Reading Room.  They provide free access to Ancestry Library Edition and other genealogical online resources. These are University of Wisconsin computers. They provide access to the internet and historic databases licensed to the University.
• Archives: Three public computers are available for searching collections descriptions.

Internet Access

• Free Wireless internet access is available via the University of Wisconsin network (UWNet) in both the Library and the Archives. Each Library table offers ample electrical outlets for visitors to charge electronic devices.

Microfilm Readers

• Library: We offer five microfilm readers and eight digital microfilm scanners. Note: the five microfilm readers do not have printing capabilities. Researchers may view and print from microfilm on the 2nd floor.
• Archives: One microfilm scanner and one microfilm reader is available.

Self-Service Copiers

• Library: We offer two scanner copiers designed specifically for copying book materials. Copied materials can be printed to paper, saved to Google Docs or to a flash drive.
• Archives: Two scanner copiers are available. The archives also allows the use of digital photography, researchers wanting to take photos should bring their own equipment. Researchers must agree to the terms of our reference photography agreement before taking any photographs.
• Microform Copying: Eight digital microfilm scanners for making copies (print or scan) from microfilm and microfiche. Located on the 2nd floor in the Library.
• Wiscard Copying and Printing: Copiers and printers require a Wiscard. Non-UW Madison guests may obtain a guest copy card at either the library or archives reference desk. For more information about obtaining copies call: Archives Reference Desk at 608-264-6460 or the Library Reference Desk at 608-264-6535.

Personal Care

Restrooms

• Library: Restrooms are located on the 2nd floor, just outside the Library.
• Archives: Restrooms are located on the 4th floor, just outside the Archives Research Room.
• Main floor: Restrooms are located near the auditorium on the 1st floor.

Coat Closet

• Library: There is no coat closet available in the Library.
• Archives: There is a large closet available for your coats and jackets.

Lockers

• Store Small Items: Such as laptops, briefcases, book bags or handbags.
• Library: Several lockers are available in Library's book stacks on the 2nd floor.
• Archives: Several lockers are available just outside the Archives Research Room on the 4th floor.

Refreshments

• Public vending machines are available on the 1st floor.
• The University of Wisconsin Memorial Union is just across the street. The Union offers a wide assortment of dining options.
• State Street in downtown Madison has many restaurants to choose from and is within walking distance.

Have Questions?

Contact our Library and Archives staff at 608-264-6535 or by email below:

asklibrary@wisconsinhistory.org

askarchives@wisconsinhistory.org