Natasha Winkler
For decades, the Appleton Public Library has been a cornerstone of our community — providing knowledge, connection, and a welcoming space for all. Now, after years of planning, collaboration, and anticipation, the library has turned a new page. On February 15, 2025, the doors of the newly constructed Appleton Public Library opened to the public, marking the beginning of an exciting new era.
More Than Just Books
Libraries have always been about more than books, and the Appleton Public Library is a shining example of this evolution. With 7,000 additional square feet of space, the new facility was designed to be a dynamic, flexible environment that caters to the changing needs of the community.
The modernized library features a curved glass pavilion that invites natural light into its many gathering areas, as well as an expanded children’s section that includes a sensory room, play spaces, and a variety of media options to encourage young minds to explore, learn, and grow.
A Community Effort
The $40.4 million project was made possible through a combination of funding sources. The City of Appleton contributed $26.4 million through property taxes, while the Friends of Appleton Public Library raised an impressive $12 million in donations. An additional $2 million in grants came from Appleton’s share of the American Rescue Plan Act.
“Our new library represents the culmination of decades of work and is the result of the combined efforts and resources of our project team, donors, and the people of Appleton,” said Mayor Jake Woodford. “All are welcome to join us in celebrating this community achievement.”
That sense of community pride was on full display at the grand opening celebration on February 15. The day-long event featured guided tours, family-friendly activities, and library card signups. A ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. officially marked the beginning of this new chapter in Appleton’s story.
A Space for Everyone
From day one, the Appleton Public Library has been designed with inclusivity at its core. Its mission— “Learn, know, gather, grow – your center of community life”—reinforces its role as a hub for all residents, regardless of age, background, or circumstance.
Library cards are available to all Wisconsin residents, making it a valuable resource not only for Appleton citizens but also for visitors from surrounding areas. In fact, a significant portion of the library’s budget comes from county reimbursements—$1,268,046 in 2025 alone—from Outagamie, Calumet, Winnebago, and Brown Counties, demonstrating just how vital this institution is beyond city limits.
The library’s commitment to accessibility extends beyond its funding model. Its new energy-efficient structure, complete with a geothermal system, ensures sustainability while keeping operational costs manageable. It’s a space designed not just for today, but for the future.
Looking Ahead
The grand opening may have been a celebration of what’s been accomplished, but the library’s work is just beginning. Its strategic focus includes supporting literacy, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that children and teens find a supportive place for learning and growth. This philosophy is evident in the carefully designed spaces that encourage creativity, education, and personal growth.
As Appleton residents’ step through the doors of their new library, they’ll find more than shelves of books—they’ll find a community gathering space, a place for learning and innovation, and a testament to the power of working together to invest in the future.
The Appleton Public Library is open. It’s time to turn the page and see what’s next.