Brown County East Branch Library

A Library Designed for Everyday Life

Brown County Library’s East Branch was long due for a refresh. The former location, though loved by many, simply didn’t offer the space or flexibility needed by a modern community. With a strong commitment to early literacy, job readiness, and lifelong learning, the library system reimagined what a neighborhood branch could be—and delivered a vibrant, welcoming new space that meets the diverse needs of the community. 

“We want our patrons to know this library is theirs,” said Susan Lagerman, Community Engagement Manager. “Whether you’re a job seeker, a toddler learning through play, or someone looking for a quiet place to read, this space is here for you.” 

The new East Branch, which opened in 2023, tripled the size of the former facility. Informed by community feedback and an inclusive vision, the design supports everything from quiet study to energetic programming, job resource access to family play, all under one welcoming roof. 

A Community-Informed Vision 

When planning the new branch, staff made a concerted effort to hear directly from the people they serve. “We had ‘dream boards’ and listening sessions,” Lagerman explained. “We asked, ‘What do you want from your library?’ And then—we really listened.” 

The result is a layout shaped by the community’s requests. Multiple study rooms cater to students, professionals, and virtual meetings. A calming room offers privacy for nursing mothers or families needing a quiet space. A drive-up window adds convenience for busy parents. And the expansive outdoor area, enclosed for safety, gives children a secure place to explore while hosting a variety of seasonal programs. 

One of the branch’s standout partnerships is the “Job Pod” created with Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development. With job centers shifting post-COVID, libraries have become essential partners in providing workforce resources. The Job Pod offers technology and space for job seekers to apply, interview, and connect with employment services.

“This is the kind of impact libraries can have,” said Lagerman. “We’re truly embedded in the fabric of community life.”

Design for Everyone

Inside the new East Branch, visitors discover spaces designed for comfort, flexibility, and discovery. In the children’s area, kids can explore a play-based environment with durable MyPlace modular lounge seating, specified in colorful upholstery from Pallas Textiles. Tables and chairs of various heights accommodate growing learners and encourage both independent and parent-led activities. 

Just for teens, the library created a distinct space featuring cool, stylish seating—including cozy pod-like Sway chairs—and counter-height study areas. “We wanted them to have a place that feels like it’s truly theirs,” Lagerman said. “And they really do gravitate to it.” 

Adults can sink into Lyra lounge seating near the fireplace or perch at Athens café-style tables to read, relax, or meet a friend. Large windows and an abundance of natural light make the space feel bright and calming—an intentional design decision. 

“Our old space didn't have any natural light,” Lagerman recalled. “Now, it makes all the difference for both patrons and staff.” 

Empowering Staff & Supporting Flexibility 

Library staff also benefit from a thoughtfully designed workspace. Spacious cubicles, a break room, lockers, and back-of-house sorting areas replaced the cramped, windowless conditions of the previous branch. 

“The difference is night and day,” Lagerman shared. “It’s a more dignified, more professional environment for the people who make this place run every day.” 

Furniture throughout the branch was selected with adaptability in mind. KI’s durable seating and tables—including lightweight, stackable Opt4 chairs and flip-top, nestable Pirouette tables for the community room—enable staff to quickly and safely reconfigure spaces for different programming needs. 

“Flexibility is huge,” Lagerman noted. “We need to pivot easily, and our furniture lets us do that without strain.” 

A Welcoming, Activated Space

The community has embraced the new East Branch with open arms. On any given day, the space is alive with activity—parents reading to children, students collaborating, job seekers focused on computers, and neighbors simply enjoying the atmosphere. 

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Lagerman said. “It’s heartwarming to see a child cry because they don’t want to leave the library—it means we’ve created something truly special.” 

Even the aesthetics have captured attention. “We once saw someone photographing their hot rod in front of the library at night,” Lagerman laughed. “They wanted the library as the backdrop. It just shows—it’s a place people feel proud of.”

A Partnership Built to Last

For Brown County Library, working with KI was a natural fit. Having partnered on projects large and small for years, the team knew they could count on KI for quality, service, and style. 

“We wanted comfort, flexibility, and consistency in design so that pieces could eventually rotate across branches,” Lagerman explained. “KI helped us find that balance. Their furniture is built to last, looks great, and is thoughtfully designed for our needs.” 

KI and its local furniture integrator, Duet Resource Group, also made the process smooth, responsive, and collaborative—from furniture selection to delivery. 

More Than a Library, A Community Anchor 

From vibrant programming and inclusive spaces to job readiness and quiet refuge, the East Branch serves the whole person and the whole community. And with the right environment and furnishings, it empowers patrons and staff alike to thrive. 

As Lagerman summed it up: “We say it all the time—this library is yours.”