Milwaukee County Federated Library System

Serving the public libraries of Milwaukee County with resources and collaborations that enhance our communities.

Our Mission

MCFLS provides collaborative leadership, advocacy, and support for high-quality resources and services to empower the capabilities and capacities of member libraries to deliver responsive and innovative library services to all residents of Milwaukee County.

 

Our Vision

MCFLS and member libraries envision themselves as indispensable resources and vital partners providing access to a coordinated network of information, exceptional library experiences, and life-inspiring opportunities.

 

Governance

MCFLS is primarily funded by the State of Wisconsin, overseen by the Department of Public Instruction, and administered by a seven-member Board of Trustees.  It functions as a membership organization – with its membership made up of the 15 administratively autonomous and fiscally independent public libraries in Milwaukee County. These public libraries join the MCFLS organization voluntarily and renew their memberships periodically by signing a membership agreement.

 

About MCFLS

MCFLS manages CountyCat, the shared library automation system and makes the resources of the 15 member libraries easily available to all Milwaukee County residents. MCFLS administers a wide area network, offers PC and helpdesk support and provides delivery services so that materials may be exchanged between member libraries using Action Logistics as the courier service. A contract with South Central Library System allows MCFLS to participate in the statewide delivery network and to send/receive items from interlibrary loan with other Wisconsin library systems four days per week.

MCFLS provides access to specialized collections and materials through agreements with the Milwaukee Public Library. This includes a coordinated and centralized cataloging service that translates into quality information in our CountyCat system.  MCFLS brokers purchases of databases, e-book and other online resources and provides educational opportunities for library staff. MCFLS staff serve as project consultants for member libraries.

Fact Sheet
Staffing Chart
Summary of Services