Wisconsin Division for Libraries (Dept. of Public Instruction)
Every resident of Wisconsin has free access to a statewide library system run by Wisconsin Division for Libraries (Dept. of Public Instruction). With a local library card, students, parents, and teachers can use research databases, ebooks and audiobooks, and learning programs at no cost. Here is what is available and how to get it.
Wisconsin public libraries at a glance
Research databases: BadgerLink
BadgerLink is Wisconsin's free statewide research service.
Resources students can use inside BadgerLink include:
- EBSCO Explora (Elementary, Middle-High, Everyone)
- Academic & Business Source Premier
- Britannica (Library, School, Escolar)
- NoveList & NoveList K-8
- Gale Chilton Library
- TeachingBooks
- Archive of Wisconsin Newspapers
Ebooks & audiobooks: Wisconsin Digital Library (Libby/OverDrive, via WPLC), free with a library card.
Early literacy programs
Britannica School Early Elementary (PreK-2) and TeachingBooks are available through BadgerLink.
Accessible reading & talking books
Students and family members who cannot read standard print (because of a visual, physical, or reading disability such as dyslexia) can get free audiobooks and braille through Wisconsin Talking Book & Braille Library (WTBBL), part of the national NLS network and its BARD download service. The Wisconsin Talking Book and Braille Library (WTBBL) in Milwaukee is the state's NLS regional library; residents with print disabilities apply.
Find a library & get a card
Use the official locator to find your nearest Wisconsin public library, hours, and how to get a card. Find a library →
Through WISCAT, you can borrow materials from libraries across the state by interlibrary loan.