Mission
The mission of the Independence Public Library is to provide access to materials and services that meet the educational, informational, and recreational needs of the community. The library seeks to fulfill this mission by providing materials in various formats and programs for patrons of all ages.
Find Us
23688 Adams St.
P.O. Box 99
Independence, WI 54747
715-985-3616
We are part of the Winding Rivers Library System.
Our Team
Library Director
Kayla Mathson
Library Assistant
Amy Baize
Library Board Members
President: Kristine Servais
School Representative: Paul Franzwa
City Council Liaison: Cleo Skroch
Secretary: Sydney Pecha
Trustee: Mary Gunderson
Trustee: Jennifer Dascher Servais
Trustee: Rose Marie Russell
Trustee: Pa Lee
Requesting Library Items–Books and More!
When some people think about libraries, they think about traditional books, printed on paper. We DO have and love traditional books, fiction and non-fiction, for babies, children, teens and adults. That said, we also offer other cool and surprising library items for check-out: audio books, DVDs, music CDs and magazines. Take a look at our Special Check-outs page for some unexpected items available for you to borrow! Search our library catalog to see what’s at the library, place holds, or manage your library account.
If we don’t have the item you’re looking for on our shelves, let us know. The Independence Public Library belongs to the Winding Rivers Library System. We have a fantastic inter-library delivery system that connects with almost every other library in the state – if it’s available to borrow at a different library, we can usually track it down for you!
Your Library Card
- Your library card works at all the libraries in Winding Rivers Library System, which encompasses seven Wisconsin counties in our region.
- Your library card can also be used to access hundreds of online classes, to look at magazines and newspapers online, to find auto repair or buying advice, or to check out audiobooks and ebooks from Overdrive using the Libby app.
- Library cards are free. Stop by and fill out the short registration form. You will need a photo I.D. and proof of current address.
- Children under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the registration form in order to get a library card.
Getting Online at the Library
- The Independence Public Library has eight computers for public use.
- All eight computers are connected to a printer so that users can print from the Internet or print documents created on the computer. The library charges 20 cents per page for black and white, or 50 cents per page for colored printing.
- If others are waiting to use a computer, there is a time limit of 30 minutes.
- When using computers, please use the hand sanitizer provided.
- Free WiFi access is available inside our building and accessible from outside along the Second Street and Adams Street sidewalks.
The password for the WiFi is thanks47.
Making Copies
- Library staff can make copies for you in black and white or color.
- The library charges 20 cents per page for B&W and 50 Cents for Color prints.
- The library does not have a fax machine. You are able to send faxes next door at City Hall for $1.50.
Ways to Support Independence Public Library
Check something out!
Part of our funding formula is determined by the number of checkouts we get from people in our neighboring areas. It doesn’t matter if you’re reading books, binge watching TV shows, or listening to an audiobook.
Donate your gently-used, in-demand books, movies, toys, games, CDs, or craft supplies!
We welcome your donations of gently used (clean and in good condition) books, audio books, music, and movies. But be aware that donated materials become the property of the Independence Public Library and are not returnable. They will be evaluated in the same way as other library materials when we decide whether to add them to our collection, pass them along to another library who wants the item, or discard them. Discarded books may be offered for sale, which also benefits the library. Upon request, we will provide a receipt for donated items, however the library cannot assign a monetary value to your donation.
Stick up for the library!
Contact your local legislators to thank them for their continued support of your local library. If you need help finding contact information, stop in! We’re happy to help you find the right people.
Brag us up to your friends and neighbors.
Let people know about the great books, new release movies, or fun events you find at Independence Public Library. Better yet – bring them with on your next visit. Signing up for a library card is fast, easy, and free! You just need a photo ID and proof of your address.
Come to our events!
We love putting on programs and parties for our community members. Check out our Facebook page and keep your eyes peeled for posters with information about upcoming library activities. And if you have a fun idea you’d like us to try, stop in and ask! If it’s something we think will go over well with the community, we’ll definitely try it out!
This list was made using suggestions from The Page Turner. Go here to see their full list of suggestions.
Other Ways to Support Your Library
Financial Contributions
Monetary gifts of any size are always appreciated, especially in times like these. You may leave it up to us to spend your gift where it is most needed, or you may specify how it is to be used. Checks should be made out to Independence Public Library.
Community Service Opportunities
We know many people in our area need Community Service hours for school, clubs, or other projects. If you’d like to volunteer at the library, contact us to make arrangements. We’d love to work with you to find a project at the library that works well with your skills and interests!