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Photos By Carmen Murguia
On Wednesday, July 29, 2020 the Milwaukee Public Library’s (MPL) Good Hope Branch, 7717 W. Good Hope Road, hosted its grand opening. This state-of-the-art, mixed-use development has been in the works for several years. The Good Hope Branch is the first library to reopen amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. The new branch features meeting spaces, a makers room, a children’s area, greater access to technology, and much more. While some restrictions will apply, access to computers and Wi-Fi, book pick-ups and reference services will be available.
The branch is a $6.35-million investment in the neighborhood and replaces the former Mill Road Branch Library. At 18,400 square feet, the Good Hope Branch Library is the third largest branch in the system, following Mitchell Street Branch at 23,000 square feet and Washington Park at 20,000 square feet. The new library branch is housed in the lower level of a 65-unit affordable housing apartment complex designed by Engberg Anderson. The vibrant library space however was designed by Zimmerman Architectural Studios.
Pictured at the library’s opening are (from left) Alderwoman Chantia Lewis; Journey House Chief Executive Officer and MPL Bord of Directors President Dr. Michele Bria, Milwaukee Public School Board of Directors President and MPL Board Trustee Mark Sain; State Representative LaKeshia Meyers; incoming MPL director and city librarian Joan R. Johnson; and current MPL director and city librarian Paula A. Kiely.
