Academic Resources
MIAD combines the resources of the Library with the personnel of the Learning Resource Center to give students comprehensive services in one convenient location. Situated on the River Level, at the far west end of the building, the Library/Learning Resource Center is a comfortable oasis where students can study, get help with research and writing, meet with a peer mentor, read or just relax and enjoy the river view.
Library
The library collection is designed to meet various information needs. In the Library, students, faculty, staff and alumni have on-site access to more than 25,000 books, videos and DVDs; 125 current periodicals; reserve items and an up-to-date collection of career materials. An additional 500,000 items are available for request through the library consortium. The MIAD I.D. serves as a Library card. Computers in the Library offer web access to the online catalog, research and image databases, online reserves, e-mail and word processing programs. Friendly staff is available for research assistance. For more information, click here.
The Learning Resource Center
The Learning Resource Center is an integral part of MIAD’s Library and Learning Commons. The Learning Resource Center provides resources and services to meet students’ personal academic needs. Students go to the Center seeking help with course studies, research and tutoring assistance, English language learning assistance, accessibility services and counseling support. The Learning Resource Center is located inside the library, Room RL-100.
News
Fashion students design adaptive clothing for Independence First
For the second year in a row, Fashion and Apparel Design students at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) worked with Independence First to design adaptive clothing tailor-made for two people who use wheelchairs. The project is part of a junior-level Patternmaking & Construction course.
MIAD Values Recognition Award: Nichole Uecker
Nichole Uecker, Student Accessibility Coordinator, received the October 2025 MIAD Values Recognition Award at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD). Nichole’s nominations highlighted her embodiment of MIAD’s Core Values, especially Community, Inclusion and Kindness.
Personal and professional passion inspire Product Design student
When senior Carmen Briones’ mother was diagnosed with breast cancer during Briones’ sophomore year at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD), finding a bra that was comfortable with a medical port became an additional challenge. Briones ’26 (Product Design) answered that challenge in her Design for Human Interface class by designing a product that reduces pain while increasing mobility.
Toy design at Squishmallows: MIAD student develops confidence
When she first got the internship offer from Squishmallows at Jazwares, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) senior Melody Frias ’26 (Communication Design and Illustration) thought she was in shock. Months after the internship concluded, Frias still reads that email when she needs a boost.
Collections Spotlight: Helen Hoppin
Not only is the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) home to two formal gallery spaces hosting numerous external exhibitions, the college also boasts its own large collection focusing on work produced by founders and early students.