Visit Our Library & Archives
About the Library & Archives
Where the past informs our present
Discover the stories of Wisconsin and beyond at the Wisconsin Historical Society Library and Archives. Whether you are tracing your family history, writing a book or research paper, or simply interested in Wisconsin’s past we are here to help you explore.
We collect, preserve, and share collections that document the history of Wisconsin, the United States, and Canada.
Whether you’re a researcher, student, or lifelong learner, we invite you to explore our collections and discover new connections to the past.
Our Collection
Strengths
Our strengths include Wisconsin history and genealogy, U.S. and Canadian history, and one of the nation’s largest newspaper collections. You’ll also find materials on mass communications, social action, and organized labor, along with maps, films, photographs, and audio recordings that bring history to life.
Collection OverviewsMonday – Wednesday | 8AM – 5PM
Thursday | 8AM – 7PM
Friday | 8AM – 5PM
Saturday | 9AM – 4PM
Closed Sundays
Monday – Friday | 8AM – 5PM
Saturday | 9AM – 4PM
Closed Sundays
Visitor Amenities
Whether you’re here for a few hours or an extended research visit, the Wisconsin Historical Society provides the tools and spaces you need to explore history comfortably.
Work & Study Spaces
A bright and comfortable space to work or study. Reserve in advance.
Library Reading Room
A bright, airy, two-story space with ample study tables, outlets, and free Wi-Fi—perfect for research or study.
Archives Research Room
A quiet environment for reviewing original documents and collections.
Technology & Research Tools
- Public Computers: Computers with access to Ancestry Library Edition and other historic databases.
- Internet Access: Free Wi-Fi available throughout the Library and Archives.
- Microfilm & Microform Readers: Digital microfilm readers/scanners are located in the Library and Archives.
- Self-Service Copying: Scanners are available in the Library and Archives. Digital photography is permitted in the Archives with prior approval.
- Printing: Wiscard or guest copy card required for printing.
Personal Care & Convenience
- Restrooms: Library (2nd Floor), Archives (4th Floor), and Main Floor near the auditorium.
- Coat Storage & Lockers: Lockers available in both the Library and Archives for personal items.
- Refreshments: Vending machines on the 1st Floor. Nearby dining at the UW Memorial Union and along State Street.
Accessibility
The Wisconsin Historical Society is committed to welcoming
all visitors.
- Wheelchair Access: Ramp on the east side (Library Mall) and elevators to main floors. Staff can assist with items on non-accessible Library stack levels.
- Magnifying Aids: Magnifying glasses available at the Library and Archives desks.
- Parking & Drop-Off: Accessible drop-off on Park Street; accessible parking at UW Lot #6 and State Street Campus Garage. Free parking with a valid DIS hangtag or plate.
- Public Computers & Scanners: Accessible and available in the Library and Archives reading rooms.
- Restrooms: Accessible on Main, 2nd, and 4th Floors.
- Retrieval Services: Staff can retrieve Library materials upon request.
- Service Animals: Welcome throughout the Society in accordance with the ADA.
For more details, review UW-Madison accessibility resources.
Wisconsin Historical Society Headquarters
The Library and Archives are located within the Wisconsin Historical Society Headquarters on Library Mall of the UW-Madison campus. We are free and open to the public.
816 State Street, Madison, WI 53706
Parking & Directions
Our headquarters has no dedicated parking—alternatively, find City of Madison and UW parking options within walking distance.
Visitors with limited mobility should read our Accessibility information.
City buses stop one block away.
From Names to Narratives: Writing Your Family History
Genealogy ● Virtual Event
📅Sat, Sep 19, 2026 | 9 AM–4 PM ➡️ Tell your own family history during an engaging webinar workshop with writer-genealogist Lynn Palermo.
Using Wisconsin Church Records for Genealogy
Genealogy ● Virtual Event
📅Tue, Oct 13, 2026 | 7 PM–8:30 PM ➡️ Hitting a wall researching your family history? Sunny Jane Morton will share how church records may hold the answers!
Uncovering Your Roots: Getting Started with Genealogy
Genealogy ● Virtual Event
📅Tue, Oct 20, 2026 | 6:30 PM–8 PM ➡️ Interested in learning about your family history? Join us for “Uncovering Your Roots: Getting Started with Genealogy”!
Let’s Eat! Tracing and Preserving Family Food History
Genealogy ● Virtual Event
📅Sat, Nov 7, 2026 | 9 AM–3 PM ➡️ Hungry for stories of your ancestors? Trace your family’s food history through recipes, ingredients, and more.
Researching Historic Buildings
Genealogy ● Virtual Event
📅Sat, Nov 21, 2026 | 10 AM–11:30 AM ➡️ Curious about the story behind your own home? Learn how to research buildings in your community with Historic Preservation Specialist Leah Penzkover during this webinar.
Saving Private Ryan’s Uniform, Or Simple Steps to Preserve Your Heirloom Textiles
Genealogy ● Madison, WI
📅Sat, Mar 27, 2027 | 1 PM–2:30 PM ➡️ Learn how to protect, preserve and care for cherished family keepsakes during this in-person program.
When a Life Becomes Myth: History, Myth and Family Stories
Genealogy ● Virtual Event
📅Sat, Apr 10, 2027 | 10 AM–11:30 AM ➡️ Hear the thrilling story of how a family myth began, and how you can demystify your own ancestors’ pasts during this webinar.
AI in Genealogical Research: A Practical Approach
Genealogy ● Virtual Event
📅Tue, May 4, 2027 | 7 PM–8:30 PM ➡️ Learn practical ways to put AI to use while researching your family history during this webinar.
Research Opportunities Across the State
Access to historical public records, manuscripts, and research assistance. Our resources are available in 14 locations statewide. Explore in a community near you!
Explore CentersMore About Visiting Us
The Wisconsin Historical Society Library makes it easy for visitors to access our collections, whether you’re here in person or through your local library. Whether visiting for research or borrowing to explore at home, our Library & Archives staff are ready to help you access the materials you need.
Researchers must register to use materials in the Archives Reading Room, which can be done when they visit or ahead of time online.
Researchers must present a photo ID upon arrival to complete their registration.
Not Allowed
- pens
- food & drink
- bags
- coats
Allowed
- notebooks
- pencils
- notes
- laptops
- phones
- etc
In the Archive Room materials can also be photographed with a phone, without flash.
University of Wisconsin Students & Employees:
Borrow materials in person with your UW System photo ID.
Wisconsin Residents:
- Option 1: UW-Madison Libraries community card. Borrow from both UW-Madison Libraries and the Society Library.
- Option 2: Free Society community card at the Library Circulation Desk. Valid for Society materials only.
What Can Be Borrowed
Most books, bound periodicals, microforms, and government publications may be checked out for home use. Rare, fragile, small, or heavily used items (including many genealogical resources) do not circulate. Materials may always be used on-site without a card.
Checking Out Materials
Check out books, pamphlets, microfilm, government publications, and bound periodicals at the Library Circulation Desk with a valid UW or Society library card.
Special Hours
The Library & Archives are occasionally closed or close early for holidays and other events.
This schedule may change without notice—please confirm operating hours by contacting us before visiting.
| Date | Change to Schedule | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| August 8 | Library Closes at 3 PM | Outside Event |
| Sep 5-7 | Building Closed | Labor Day |
| Sep 17 | Library Closes at 3:30 PM | Outside Event |
| Nov 26 | Building Closed | Thanksgiving |
Last Updated: September 14, 2026
