Established in 1972 as an independent affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Wisconsin Humanities Council, is supported by federal, state, and private funds. Through its own programs and through grants to other organizations, the WHC supports public programs that engage the people of Wisconsin in the exploration of human cultures, ideas, and values.

To accomplish its mission, the Council awards grants to support programs in libraries, museums, universities, historical societies, schools, and other nonprofit settings throughout the state. The WHC also offers several council-conducted initiatives. These include the Wisconsin Book Festival, a book discussion series, a speakers bureau, and training institutes for literacy instructors.