Milwaukee has a new library. And, as far as libraries go, it's gorgeous.
"It's not your grandma's library," says OnMilwaukee's Bobby Tanzilo, who visited the new branch ahead of its official opening ceremony over the weekend.
The Mitchell Street Library -- 906 W. Historic Mitchell St. -- replaces the former Forest Home branch.
And it is full of modern updates.
Natural light pours in through massive windows, a living room set complete with fireplace welcomes guests, and a custom-built "social staircase" invites visitors to lounge on its steps to read a book or to simply charge their devices with built-in USB outlets.
There are multipurpose rooms that can be arranged in different configurations, tons of swanky new seating, even a "makerspace" complete with a full kitchen, recording studio, audio editing suites and a graphic design kiosk.
In addition to all the new features, the mixed use development brings new housing to the neighborhood, with approximately 60 new apartments and townhouses in the upper floors and around the back of the building.
Click the player below to my conversation with Tanzilo for this edition of Urban Spelunking.
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