The MCPL Newsletter / Blog
Watch this page for the latest library news, reading suggestions, research tips and more! These contents also are shared on our social media channels, via our e-newsletter and in our print newsletter (available at all MCPL locations).
Book Festival Preview
The Central Wisconsin Book Festival (CWBF) is celebrating its 10th anniversary this September, and we’re thrilled to offer a sneak peek at the 2026 lineup!
Teen Reading Program Giveaway
Teens signed up for our 100 Books Before Graduation program before July 31st will be automatically entered for a chance to win a $25 gift card! Available to anyone in Marathon County grades 6-12, 100BBG rewards participants with free books and gift certificates just for reading.
Web Accessibility at MCPL
MCPL is committed to maintaining accessible web content in compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. During the past two years, we have improved the navigation of our web content for screen reader and assistive technology users.
Analog Activities
You may have noticed that screen‑free, hands‑on pastimes are having a moment—and MCPL is embracing the trend! “Analog activities” include everything from crochet and puzzles to gardening, reading, and coloring.
Online Engine Repair Resources
The library offers free access to Chilton Library—the gold standard for at-home auto repair. For smaller vehicles and equipment, check out the Small Engine Repair Reference Center.
Group Visits
The library welcomes school groups! We’ve had many schools and grades visit for guided tours, story times, and more. At our Wausau location, groups also get aquarium lessons and an introduction to “Thunderfoot”—our life-size triceratops skeleton!
Trend in Children’s Graphic Novels
Many children’s book series have been adapted into graphic novels! For kids who are reluctant readers, these books may be the bridge they need to read more text-heavy books.
Children’s Area Refresh
Last spring, we planted a new project. We spent a year growing, and now we’re thrilled to share the revitalized children’s area at our Wausau Headquarters. This refresh project was inspired by the natural world all around us.
Current articles—no paywalls!
Have you ever been frustrated by a “paywall” that prevents you from accessing a news story or interesting article without a paid subscription? Good news! Your library card gives you free access to current articles from many popular magazines!
Comic books added to digital library
Wisconsin’s Digital Library now offers thousands of always-available comic books and graphic novels for children, teens and adults—including favorites from Marvel, Disney, Dark Horse, and others. These items may be borrowed instantly—no waiting!
Employment Opportunities
Apply to work at the Marathon County Public Library! If you are a talented, team-oriented individual who is motivated to make a difference in our community, consider these career opportunities.
Invest in the library’s future!
Consider a gift to the Marathon County Public Library Foundation—a nonprofit organization that secures funding to enhance the library services. Every gift is appreciated, no matter the size. To donate, use the online form at mcpl.us/foundation.
Staff-curated book lists
If you’re looking for ideas on what to read next, consider the many book lists we’ve created in the Library Catalog (V-Cat)! From “All about AI” to “Food in the Wild,” many award-winner lists, and beyond—you’re sure to find something of interest!
Join the Friends of the Library
Now is the perfect time to join the Friends of MCPL—or renew your annual membership! Memberships are $10 for individuals and $15 for the whole family. As a member, you get exclusive access to special book sales, plus opportunities to volunteer.
Check out the library’s updated aquarium!
The 650-gallon saltwater aquarium at the library’s Wausau location has been replaced, and its inhabitants—fish and other marine life—are back and doing well. Thank you to the MCPL Foundation for making this exciting project possible.
Mobile Printing (Princh)
Print while at the library or from home using your own computer, tablet or smartphone! Upload your files to the Princh website, or use the Princh app. Then, visit your local MCPL to pick up and pay for your prints.
116 Years of History
Through the support of WiLS Ideas to Action grant, we have been working to digitize our collection of oral histories that were taped in 1975 and 1976, as part of the Marathon County Heritage Program.
Historic maps now online!
New historical content has been added to the Central Wisconsin Digitization Project, including historic plat books! These historic plat books are from approximately 1882, 1895 and 1901. In addition, there is a book created by the Marathon County Highway Department showing the evolution of the townships in Marathon County.