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Municipal Research Library

The Municipal Research Library (formerly the Legislative Reference Bureau Library) is the official depository for City of Milwaukee documents, per Milwaukee Code of Ordinances Sec. 305-32. The MRL maintains a professionally staffed, full-service library serving government officials, city employees and citizens. With subject specialization in urban/governmental affairs, including a collection of books, journals, and City of Milwaukee reports, the library fills a wide array of information needs. Most MRL resources are available for use by the public.

Library Services and Resources:

  • MRL Catalog
    Please note: our collection is available for circulation to city employees only. However, our library is open to the public and all items may be used on-site

  • Reference Services
    We provide answers to inquiries regarding City issues, local ordinances, or other governmental topics.

  • Code Updates
    MRL staff update and maintain City Charter and Milwaukee Code of Ordinances to incorporate changes that occurred from all actions taken by the Common Council.

  • Code Histories
    We assist patrons in researching past versions of the city code, as well as obtaining copies of individual ordinances and resolutions.

  • Census Depository
    We maintain a collection of City of Milwaukee decennial census reports from 1940-2000, as well as other specialized U.S. Census Bureau reports.

  • Newspaper Clippings
    The MRL houses a microfiche collection of local newspaper clippings from the early 20th century to 2008, arranged by subject. We can access newer articles through one of our online subscriptions.

  • Research Services
    We assist researchers from all city departments in gathering data and information on urban affairs.

  • Interlibrary Loan (for City employees only)
    The MRL can obtain copies of journal articles, books or reports that are not available in our collection for work-related questions.