Robert Seltzer advocates for Middleton's 21st century public library expansion

The City of Middleton Common Council meeting held on July 15, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding the future of the Middleton Public Library. The meeting began with expressions of gratitude from community members involved in ongoing library initiatives since February 2015, emphasizing the importance of dedication and professional support for the project.

Robert Seltzer, a former Middleton resident and experienced library advocate, addressed the council, sharing his background and involvement with the Middleton Public Library. Seltzer highlighted the need for a modern library that meets the demands of the 21st century. He referenced a community survey conducted in February 2017, which underscored the necessity for a new or significantly expanded library facility.

Seltzer pointed out that the current library space is inadequate, with maximum capacity reached for collection areas and programming. He noted that in 2016, the library offered 750 programs, attracting over 25,000 attendees, indicating a pressing need for more usable space. He compared Middleton's library space allocation to that of other communities, revealing that Middleton only dedicates 7% of its library to usable space, significantly lower than nearby cities like Pittsburgh and Sun Prairie.

The discussion underscored the vision for the library as a central hub for knowledge, creativity, and technology, essential for fostering self-directed learning in the community. The council's acknowledgment of these needs suggests a commitment to addressing the library's challenges and enhancing its role in the community.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and attention to the library's development, marking a pivotal moment for the future of public resources in Middleton. Further actions and follow-ups regarding the library's expansion are anticipated in upcoming council meetings.