Skip to main content
close
Font size options
Increase or decrease the font size for this website by clicking on the 'A's.
Contrast options
Choose a color combination to give the most comfortable contrast.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten is a nation-wide challenge that encourages parents and caregivers to regularly read aloud to kids. If you read just one book a day with your child, you'll reach the 1000 book goal in less than three years - but we know you'll read more than that!

LCPL's 1000 Books Before Kindergarten initiative is sponsored by the Friends of LCPL.Cat in a space suit riding a rocket

Why is reading with kids important?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, over 1 in 3 American kids start Kindergarten without the language skills they need to learn to read. In fact, the number of words a child knows going into Kindergarten is a predictor of their academic success. Reading out loud to your kids is an easy, fun way to make sure they have the tools they need to succeed in school.

More reasons reading out loud matters

How to Join In

1: Start counting the books you read to your child.

2: Enter the number on the ReadSquared app or website. Don't love the digital format? Stop by the library for an official paper log sheet!

3: Collect your prizes! Your child will earn a prize for every 250 books read. As you read together, you'll build up your very own at-home storytime kit!

New to ReadSquared? Start here.

Already have ReadSquared from Summer Reading? Log in herethen click Enroll near your child's name to get started in 1000 Books.

Need help? Drop us a line or visit any of our branches and we'll get you set up.

What Counts?

Everything! Library books, your own books, ebooks, print books - it all counts! Whatever you read together, it helps your child build pre-literacy skills.

There's also no limit on the number of times you can read and count a single book. Many kids enjoy repetition, and if they ask for the same book ten times in a row it counts each time you read it.

Oh yeah, don't forget the prizes!

Education is, of course, its own reward but we have a few incentives for our young readers, too. Prizes are awarded for every 250 books read and are designed to help you build your own at-home storytime kit!

Log sheets, a 1000 books poster, and prizes including colorful scarves, egg shakers, rhythm sticks, and books

Prize 1 (250 books): Egg shaker

Prize 2 (500 books): Colorful scarf and your name on the digital signs inside each branch

Prize 3 (750 books): Rhythm stick

Prize 4 (1000 books): Free book, your name on the digital signs, and a certificate of completion!

Any questions? Feel free to ask a librarian!

Upcoming Events
Fri, Apr 18, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Stop in anytime during these sessions to work on a provided puzzle, crossword, word search or coloring sheet. All supplies provides.... more
Stop in anytime during these sessions to work on a provided puzzle, crossword, word search or coloring sheet. All supplies provides. Coffee, tea, and water will be available.

Fri, Apr 18, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
For seasoned players and beginners. Please bring your own set as on-site supplies are limited. Open play every third Friday.

Fri, Apr 18, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us as we explore the exciting world of Rubik's Cubes! In this fun hour-long session, you'll get the chance to learn how to solve... more
Join us as we explore the exciting world of Rubik's Cubes! In this fun hour-long session, you'll get the chance to learn how to solve the first layer of the Rubik's Cube.

Sat, Apr 19, 10:00am - 11:00am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good health. Please bring your own... more
Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good health. Please bring your own mat to class.
This event is full

Sat, Apr 19, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Kids ages 6 months through 3 years old, and their caregivers, will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Special blocks for... more
Kids ages 6 months through 3 years old, and their caregivers, will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Special blocks for older kids will also be available on high tables.

Sat, Apr 19, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville Branch Library - Children's Area
Children will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.

Sat, Apr 19, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Bring your craft projects from home and join us to chat with fellow crafters while working on your project without the interruptions of... more
Bring your craft projects from home and join us to chat with fellow crafters while working on your project without the interruptions of home. All are welcome.

Mon, Apr 21, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
This is a drop-in playtime where kids, ages 2-5, can create with playdough clay and toys.

Mon, Apr 21, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Free citizenship classes to help prepare adults for the Citizenship test in Chicago at the USCIS. Call 219-769-3541 ext.337 for more... more
Free citizenship classes to help prepare adults for the Citizenship test in Chicago at the USCIS. Call 219-769-3541 ext.337 for more information.

Mon, Apr 21, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Mon, Apr 21, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville Branch - Upper Level
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full

Mon, Apr 21, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be... more
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be displayed in the library until the next LEGO® Club meeting. 
This event is full

Mon, Apr 21, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Kids, ages 7 to 12 years old, can join us to make cloud slime. Choose your favorite springtime colors. Please register, as supplies are... more
Kids, ages 7 to 12 years old, can join us to make cloud slime. Choose your favorite springtime colors. Please register, as supplies are limited.
This event is full

Mon, Apr 21, 5:30pm - 8:15pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The "Exploring Asian-American Cinema" program will offer a monthly film series focused on showcasing and discussing popular works in... more
The "Exploring Asian-American Cinema" program will offer a monthly film series focused on showcasing and discussing popular works in Asian-American filmmaking. Please register. Titles listed below.

Mon, Apr 21, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Join us for Creativity Club where we will explore different arts and crafts mediums, learn about artists, and make cool stuff together... more
Join us for Creativity Club where we will explore different arts and crafts mediums, learn about artists, and make cool stuff together like zines and comics. Space is limited so be sure to register.

Mon, Apr 21, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B,Meeting Room C,Meeting Room D
Free English Classes for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Call 219-769-3541... more
Free English Classes for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Call 219-769-3541 ext. 337 for more information.

Mon, Apr 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library to make a floral painting using acrylic paints. You can create your own design or an example will be provided.... more
Join us at the library to make a floral painting using acrylic paints. You can create your own design or an example will be provided. Supplies are limited. Registration is required. Ages 12-18.

Mon, Apr 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Teens will learn to make a suncatcher using beads, sequins, and more! Ages 12-18. Registration required.

Mon, Apr 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Hobart - Programming Room
April is Financial Literacy Month! Centier Bank associates will be offering a series of four classes on: 1) Spending & Saving 2)... more
April is Financial Literacy Month! Centier Bank associates will be offering a series of four classes on: 1) Spending & Saving 2) Financial Recovery 3) Understanding Your Paycheck 4) Banking Services

Mon, Apr 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Come make a spring wreath out of cardboard. All ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs. Registration is required.

Mon, Apr 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Make paper umbrellas at the library. Registration is required. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs.

Tue, Apr 22, 10:15am - 11:00am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Toddlers and their adult caregivers will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 22, 10:30am - 2:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Stop in and pick up a free tree sapling courtesy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc/Alpha Gamma Rho Omega Chapter & Rep Carolyn B.... more
Stop in and pick up a free tree sapling courtesy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc/Alpha Gamma Rho Omega Chapter & Rep Carolyn B. Jackson. Available while supplies last.

Tue, Apr 22, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books,... more
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 22, 10:30am - 11:30am
Hobart - Programming Room
Homeschoolers, come hang with your peers! Educational and social opportunities will be available.

Tue, Apr 22, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Join us and bring your current painting projects/materials for an opportunity to chat and create!

Tue, Apr 22, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Children will have fun developing early literary skills as they enjoy stories, songs, crafts and more.

Tue, Apr 22, 10:30am - 11:15am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, & music that teach early literacy... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, & music that teach early literacy skills. In person craft time will follow the storytime.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 22, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime program for babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, filled with rhymes,... more
This is a storytime program for babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 22, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books,... more
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Tue, Apr 22, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the Fact or Fiction Book Club in discussing "Lady Tan's Circle of Women" by Lisa See. Copies are available at the Highland Branch.

Tue, Apr 22, 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Have you seen people playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and want to try it yourself? We will be playing the fantasy RPG "Dragonbane",... more
Have you seen people playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and want to try it yourself? We will be playing the fantasy RPG "Dragonbane", a game similar to D&D. Beginners are welcome. For ages 12-18.

Tue, Apr 22, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #3
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 22, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In honor of National Poetry Month, come to the library and make some blackout poetry!

Tue, Apr 22, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Learn and practice different frosting and icing piping techniques. Will it be messy? Probably. Will it be tasty? Definitely!

Tue, Apr 22, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join the Calumet Astronomical Society to learn about various cosmic topics!

Wed, Apr 23, 10:30am - 11:00am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books,... more
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Wed, Apr 23, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Free citizenship classes to help prepare adults for the Citizenship test in Chicago at the USCIS. Call 219-769-3541 ext.337 for more... more
Free citizenship classes to help prepare adults for the Citizenship test in Chicago at the USCIS. Call 219-769-3541 ext.337 for more information.

Wed, Apr 23, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join fellow baby and toddler caregivers after our storytime for a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation. Toys will be available for... more
Join fellow baby and toddler caregivers after our storytime for a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation. Toys will be available for children to play. Storytime attendance is not required.

Wed, Apr 23, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join the conversation!

Wed, Apr 23, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Homeschool children are invited to attend a program exploring a STEAM topic each session. The only requirement is imagination and... more
Homeschool children are invited to attend a program exploring a STEAM topic each session. The only requirement is imagination and registration!

Wed, Apr 23, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Come hang out at the library and play the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Wii and board games! Games and snacks provided. Ages 12-18.

Wed, Apr 23, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
St. John - Children's Program Room
Kids in grades K-6 are welcome to hang out in the children's room after school. Activities may include Lego, art projects, movies, and... more
Kids in grades K-6 are welcome to hang out in the children's room after school. Activities may include Lego, art projects, movies, and more! No registration required.

Wed, Apr 23, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville Branch - Upper Level
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Wed, Apr 23, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Paint, design, and decorate your very own rocks with vibrant colors, intricate patterns, or whatever your imagination allows. Teens,... more
Paint, design, and decorate your very own rocks with vibrant colors, intricate patterns, or whatever your imagination allows. Teens, join us to express yourself and make keepsakes to take home!

Wed, Apr 23, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake - Public Tables
Join us and work on your crafts at the library! Bring yarn and a size H crochet hook or size 7 knitting needles and cotton yarn - or... more
Join us and work on your crafts at the library! Bring yarn and a size H crochet hook or size 7 knitting needles and cotton yarn - or bring along a project you're already working on!

Wed, Apr 23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
A new version of Art Club! Children grades K-5 will create unique works of art while we learn about different art styles, mediums, and... more
A new version of Art Club! Children grades K-5 will create unique works of art while we learn about different art styles, mediums, and famous artists.
This event is full

Wed, Apr 23, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us for a game night for the grown ups. We will have various board games and the Nintendo Switch/Wii. You can also bring your own!

Wed, Apr 23, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Youth (ages 10 to 17) are invited to watch episodes from an anime series. We'll also have art and craft supplies if you want to draw,... more
Youth (ages 10 to 17) are invited to watch episodes from an anime series. We'll also have art and craft supplies if you want to draw, sketch, or get creative. Snacks will be provided.

Thu, Apr 24, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the... more
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the company of others.

Thu, Apr 24, 10:30am - 11:30am
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join us for this small group class all about learning library apps. You must bring your own device. Registration required.

Thu, Apr 24, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Thu, Apr 24, 11:15am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "Maame" by Jessica George. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the... more
The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "Maame" by Jessica George. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.

Thu, Apr 24, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for an informal and relaxed discussion of Chanel CLeeton's "The Cuban Heiress". Copies are available at the Munster branch.

Thu, Apr 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Join us for a storytime program featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and an in person craft that teach pre-reading/reading skills.... more
Join us for a storytime program featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and an in person craft that teach pre-reading/reading skills. This program is for kids 4-6 years of age and their caregivers.
This event is full

Thu, Apr 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Every 4th Thursday, meet for an hour to read, drink tea or coffee, and casual conversation about reading.

Thu, Apr 24, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #3
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Thu, Apr 24, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
We'll play a giant floor game with a giant die to see who can complete the grid first!

Thu, Apr 24, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Board Room
Meeting of the Lake County Public Library Board of Trustees

Thu, Apr 24, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B,Meeting Room C,Meeting Room D
Free English Classes for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Call 219-769-3541... more
Free English Classes for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Call 219-769-3541 ext. 337 for more information.

Thu, Apr 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Tweens, ages 10-12, are invited to come to the library to hangout with gaming systems, board games, and light snacks!

Thu, Apr 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Gregg Hurwitz about his novel, Nemesis, and his life as a writer of suspenseful... more
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Gregg Hurwitz about his novel, Nemesis, and his life as a writer of suspenseful storytelling.

Fri, Apr 25, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Join an open play Mahjong session; there is no instructor but other players may share tips/directions. Please bring a game set if you... more
Join an open play Mahjong session; there is no instructor but other players may share tips/directions. Please bring a game set if you have one! On-hand gaming supplies are limited. Ages 18 & over.
This event is full

Fri, Apr 25, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart Branch Library - Children's Area
Meet and read to a local LCC K-9 comfort dog and its handler. LCC K-9 comfort dogs show kindness and calm to people throughout the... more
Meet and read to a local LCC K-9 comfort dog and its handler. LCC K-9 comfort dogs show kindness and calm to people throughout the community and beyond, making them excellent listeners for all ages.

Sat, Apr 26, 10:00am - 2:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Get ready to read! Kids 5 and under will enjoy activities designed to foster pre-reading skills, while parents will learn new ways to... more
Get ready to read! Kids 5 and under will enjoy activities designed to foster pre-reading skills, while parents will learn new ways to prepare kids to read. Toys, therapy dogs, info booths, and more!

Sat, Apr 26, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Children are welcome to play chess in our meeting room during this open play session! Chess boards will be provided if you don't have... more
Children are welcome to play chess in our meeting room during this open play session! Chess boards will be provided if you don't have one! There is no instructor for this class.

Sat, Apr 26, 11:00am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Children will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.

Sat, Apr 26, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville Library - Room A
Get ready to sing, clap, and dance! Jim Gill’s music play creates the spirit of a family room in the concert hall and invites... more
Get ready to sing, clap, and dance! Jim Gill’s music play creates the spirit of a family room in the concert hall and invites children, parents, and grandparents to sing, dance, and play together!

Sat, Apr 26, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library to play Bingo! All ages are welcome to play. Winners will be able to choose from a variety of small prizes.