The Madison Public Library is committed to providing our community with a place to gather, learn and explore. Community Groups are welcome to utilize our spaces free of charge for events or meetups intended for public participation and engagement. These may include meetup groups, book clubs, lectures or educational workshops. Each event is evaluated by our Event Team on a case by case basis, regardless of previous bookings and operates on a first come, first served basis. Students looking for a place to study or groups of 10 people or less should refer to our study room guide.
The Madison Public Library does not book events that charge admission, solicit donations, or advertise businesses or for-profit services. Some exceptions for book sellers may apply.
Please contact our Events Staff at events@madisonpubliclibrary.org to schedule a tour.
Looking for information on:
Questions? Ask a Specialist
Events Department:
events@madisonpubliclibrary.org
(608)243-0478
For Study Room (groups of 10 or fewer):
General Library Number (608)266-6300
Have an Idea for a Library Program?
Fill out the Pitch a Program Form
If you are an author wishing to host a book talk, please contact the Wisconsin Book Festival.
Ready to Book?
To start the booking process, please fill out our Meeting Room Application Form and a member of the Events Team will get back to you as soon as we are able
Madison Public Library does not allow events in which funds are raised, admission is charged, donations are solicited, tickets or products are sold prior to or during the activity.
Frequently Asked Questions: Community Groups
How do I book?
Start the reservation process by filling out a Meeting Room Application. Someone from our Events Team will be in touch for more information as soon as we are able.
Do I need a Library Card to book?
You do not, but it is highly encouraged! However, your group must be based in the South Central Library System (Adams, Columbia, Dane, Green, Portage, Sauk & Wood Counties) to be able to book.
What's a Community Group?
A Community Group is any group where the intention of your event is public engagement. This could include a book group, meet ups, or free educational classes. This would not include board meetings, internal planning meetings for your group, or groups where only members can join.
What's the food policy, can we just pick up Pizza?
All food shared must be prepared in a commercial kitchen. Groups of 20 or less are welcome to carry in their own catering. If you are having catering delivered to the Library please contact the Events Team to make appropriate arrangements. Groups of 21 or more are required to use a caterer. We have an extensive preferred catering list with approved caterers for you to choose from. If there is a caterer you would like to use that is not on the list please reach out to the Events Team and they will walk you through the process. Sorry no pot lucks allowed!
Can someone help me with A, B, or C day of?
Library Staff are very busy and may not be able to help you day of. If you are using AV, the Events Team will arrange for you to do a walk through where we will show you how to use the technology available. Community Groups are expected to be self sufficient.
What's included in a Community Group reservation?
- Furniture set up & break down
- Audio Visual Equipment upon request
- Walk through with Events Staff for instruction on AV equipment
How often can we book?
Community Groups may book in advance up to 6 reservations in a 6 month period. There is a limit on 2 reservations per month. Due to capacity we can not accommodate weekly groups, though they are welcome to book a Study Room with a Library Card.
Are there carts available?
Carts can be made available only with prior arrangements.
Can I have decorations?
We have a few restrictions on decorations. Please do not use glitter, glow sticks, helium bollons, or open flames. If you have a question, please contact the Events Team.
Will the Library promote my event?
The Library only promotes our Library Programs. Please do not use our logo on your marketing materials.
Can I hang signs in the Library to let people know where to go?
Signage in the Library is monitored for adherence with Library policy. Speak with the Event Team before hanging directional signs or they may be removed.
We booked at a branch library before why was my event denied?
The Branch Libraries and Central Library have some differences in what type of events may book. We assess all events on a case by case basis regardless of if you have previously booked a space with a branch or Central Library.