• by Larissa Faw , October 22, 2019

Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) is attempting to entice more visitors by hosting a rap battle where teens performed their original music before a panel of professional judges.

The battle is part of the larger ongoing “Library Loud Days” campaign created by Cramer-Krasselt as part of the agency’s pro bono community efforts.

The general public whittled down the contestants to eight finalists who presented their music on Thursday October 17 in front of local music professionals WebsterX, DJ Loop and IshDARR along with the MC of the event DJ Bizzon. 

The winner of the competition RB Vic was awarded a $1,000.00 cash prize and has the opportunity to perform on Milwaukee’s radio station, 88nine's 414Live. One second place winner received $500. In addition to the contestants, IshDARR also gave a performance of his own.

The goal of Library Loud Days is to encourage more traffic to area branches through unique events that turn the typical “shhh” experience of the library on its head.

"Attendees were able to sign up for a library card, be reminded to register to vote at any MPL location, and simply witness that their library has amazing resources and programming to offer – such as a Rap Battle," explains Gwendolyn Long, library marketing specialist, communications and marketing, MPL. 

"The Rap Battle shows how important it is to support one another as individuals with the support of the community." 

“Many libraries are facing modern day challenges, like declining patron count and circulation figures and the growing perception that libraries are quiet, old-fashioned, solitary establishments that collect books and dust,” explains Eric Ebenhoch, Senior Vice President, Group Director, C-K. We want to show the perception couldn’t be further from the truth. "MPL is a vibrant and changing institution," he says.