Library Staff Directory
Nov 14, 2025
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2026 WISCONSIN DIGITAL LIBRARY/LIBBY EXPANSION
Throughout 2025, library staff have been exploring ways to expand access to digital books and audiobooks while staying within budget. After reviewing several options, we’re excited to share that Shorewood Public Library will join public libraries across Milwaukee County to launch and invest in a new Lucky Day digital collection available through the Wisconsin Digital Library and powered by the Libby app.
This collection will feature popular, high-demand titles that are available without holds or wait times for readers and listeners of all ages with a special emphasis on audiobooks.
The total countywide investment for this initiative is $100,000, and based on a usage formula, Shorewood Public Library’s share for 2026 is $4,212.
WHY THE WISCONSIN DIGITAL LIBRARY/LIBBY?
COST SUSTAINABILITY – OverDrive allows libraries to purchase copies as needed, offering predictable annual budgeting rather than open-ended costs.
FAMILIAR PLATFORM – Libby is already the most widely used and preferred app for digital borrowing among Milwaukee County residents with more than one million items downloaded each year.
IMPROVED ACCESS – The Lucky Day collection will make popular titles available right away, helping to reduce frustration with long hold queues.
SHARED BENEFIT – Because the collection is shared across all Milwaukee County public libraries, residents will enjoy equal access regardless of which library they use—just like with physical materials today.
This change will take effect on January 1, 2026. We wanted to share this news early, so residents are informed and ready for the exciting improvements ahead. While this expansion won’t completely eliminate wait times in the Wisconsin Digital Library/Libby, we’re confident it will provide faster access, better meet residents’ reading and listening needs, and deliver a stronger digital experience for everyone in our community.
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