Browser's Book Bash

Who is Browser the Library Lion?

Browser was introduced to the city (without a name) at the Grand Avenue Mall on April 20, 1985 for National Library Week and Imagination Celebration, a week-long series of city-wide arts events for children. He was also part of Milwaukee’s City of Festivals parade on June 22, 1985. The sculpted lion was created by local artist Bob Geniusz under the direction of Marjorie Walker, director of Theatre School Ltd. 

A naming contest was held during the summer and Browser the Library Lion was selected from several hundred entries. Eight-year-old Kathleen Simeth was the only one to submit the winning name of “Browser the Library Lion.”

Browser was given his first makeover as a live mascot in late 1993. In 2016, 
he was given another makeover, and along with that came the idea of officially 
celebrating Browser’s Birthday - August 1.

Browser Fun Facts:

• Browser is a born-and-bred Milwaukeean whose best friends include the Cat in the Hat, Curious George, and Billy Bookworm.
• His favorite color is Super Reader Red and he enjoys reading Color Zoo by his good friend Lois Ehlert and Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen.
• Hobbies include reading, going to the library, and bowling, and he loves music, dancing, grand openings and hugs.
• Browser also collects bookmarks of all shapes and sizes - especially homemade bookmarks.