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Library Leadership Team

The Lake County Public Library is led by a diverse team of people who use their individual strengths and talents to benefit the library. With many years of experience in the administration of library services, each offers something unique and valuable to the operation of our library system.

Carol Daumer Gutjahr, Director
John Brock, Assistant Director-Finance & Operations
Roddretta Waxton, Assistant Director-Public Library Services
Nick Bliss, Technology Services Coordinator
Erika Stolarz, Branch Services Coordinator

Branch Management Team:

Chris, Merrillville Branch Head
Jon, Cedar Lake Branch Head
Beth, Dyer-Schererville Branch Head
Beth, Griffith-Calumet Twp Branch Head
Heather, Highland Branch Head
Jo, Hobart Branch Head
Kate, Lake Station-New Chicago Branch Head
Michael, Munster Branch Head
Holly, St. John Branch Head

Contact Us via Email
Or write to us at:
1919 West 81st Ave
Merrillville, Indiana 46410

Reference question? Use our Ask a Librarian form.

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Get emails about the latest and greatest library features and services.

Upcoming Events
Family Storytime
Sat, Apr 01, 10:00am - 10:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
This is a 30 minute storytime program for children ages Birth - 6 and their family. We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!
Stitch'n Time
Sat, Apr 01, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us and bring your current projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) for an opportunity to chat and create! Other... more
Join us and bring your current projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) for an opportunity to chat and create! Other attendees would be happy to instruct on crochet as needed.
Tween Green Screen: Ages 10 to 13
Sat, Apr 01, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Tweens, ages 10 to 13, will learn to use the library's green screen. Please register.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Apr 03, 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.
International Film: Dead Pigs
Mon, Apr 03, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
International Film Series. Adults only. Mandarin with English subtitles. 122 Minutes. Registration required.
Uncharted
Mon, Apr 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan recruits street-smart Nathan Drake to help him recover a 500-year-old lost fortune amassed by... more
Treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan recruits street-smart Nathan Drake to help him recover a 500-year-old lost fortune amassed by explorer Ferdinand Magellan. PG-13 1h56min
The Truman Show (1998) - Movie Monday
Mon, Apr 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Popcorn and snacks will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.
Teen NWI Chess Club
Mon, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens in 6th-12th grades are invited to join the NWI Chess Club. Please register and bring your own board.
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12.... more
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12. Please register.
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room,Munster Zoom Room
Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available.... more
Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available. Registration Required.  Programs subject to change.
Teen Anime Club
Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Are you a fan of anime or manga? If so, come to our monthly Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch. We watch 3-4 episodes of your... more
Are you a fan of anime or manga? If so, come to our monthly Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch. We watch 3-4 episodes of your choosing each month. Ages 12-18.
Teen Poetry Night
Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Celebrate National Poetry Month! Join us as we create blackout poetry using book pages and found poetry bookmarks using magazines. All... more
Celebrate National Poetry Month! Join us as we create blackout poetry using book pages and found poetry bookmarks using magazines. All supplies provided. Ages 12-18.
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
For this program teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will... more
For this program teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will be provided. Ages 12 – 18. Please register.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Tue, Apr 04, 10:15am - 11:15am
St. John - Children's Program Room
A 30 minute program for children, ages 4-6 and their caregiver(s). We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!
Travel Film: Holland
Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Holland. Runtime: 52mins. Please register.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Children ages 2-3 and their caregivers are invited to a 20-minute storytime session. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft,... more
Children ages 2-3 and their caregivers are invited to a 20-minute storytime session. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft, all designed to foster pre-reading skills.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 months
Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:00am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and... more
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
This event is full
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach early... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach early literacy skills. Make sure to grab a take home craft as well! .
This event is full
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:30am
Dyer-Schererville Branch - Tutor Table
Book this one-hour session to receive individualized instruction in basic technology skills. Registrant may be contacted before the... more
Book this one-hour session to receive individualized instruction in basic technology skills. Registrant may be contacted before the session to discuss the type of help needed.
This event is full
Storytime: Ages 4-5
Tue, Apr 04, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an... more
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an emphasis on important early pre-reading skills.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Apr 04, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
A storytime program for toddlers and their adult caregivers. Attendees will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft.... more
A storytime program for toddlers and their adult caregivers. Attendees will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft. Registration Required.
Eat Smart, Live Strong: For Seniors - Presented by Purdue University Extension
Tue, Apr 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
This program teaches seniors (60+) how to make changes to improve health, reduce stress & increase physical fitness. Classes include... more
This program teaches seniors (60+) how to make changes to improve health, reduce stress & increase physical fitness. Classes include trying delicious recipes & learning new exercises to do at home.
Spring Fest!
Tue, Apr 04, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
All ages of children and teens are welcome to drop by any time during this 2-hour open-house event to make crafts, play games, and use... more
All ages of children and teens are welcome to drop by any time during this 2-hour open-house event to make crafts, play games, and use our green screen. A family movie will be shown as well.
Yoga & Breathing
Tue, Apr 04, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for a yoga program. Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good... more
Join us for a yoga program. Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good health. Please bring your own mat to class.
Create Your Own Greeting Card
Wed, Apr 05, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15.00... more
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15.00 dollars to attend and includes all necessary materials.
Off the Hook
Wed, Apr 05, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the... more
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the company every Wednesday! All crafts are welcome.
Crochet @ Your Library
Wed, Apr 05, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake - Public Tables
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!
LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)
Wed, Apr 05, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program 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.
Teen Game Time
Wed, Apr 05, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens ages 12 to 18 will play video games on the Nintendo Switch. We will have games available for the group to play. Please register.
Create Your Own Greeting Card
Wed, Apr 05, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15.00... more
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15.00 dollars to attend and includes all necessary materials.
Teen Advisory Board - Teen Drawing
Wed, Apr 05, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Join us and earn volunteer hours while helping plan teen programming and services. For grades 6-12. Bring your art supplies and draw... more
Join us and earn volunteer hours while helping plan teen programming and services. For grades 6-12. Bring your art supplies and draw whatever you like during the discussion!
Family Storytime: Pirates!
Wed, Apr 05, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
This is a pirate themed storytime for children, ages 2-6, and their caregivers.
All Ability: Dream Catcher Craft
Wed, Apr 05, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
This month we will be making Dream catchers from Popsicle sticks! Space is limited. Registration is required for all attendees.
Pajama Storytime
Wed, Apr 05, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Come in your PJs and join us for bedtime stories and lullabies!
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-24 Months
Thu, Apr 06, 10:15am - 10:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
A 30 minute storytime for children ages Birth-24 months, with their caregiver(s). We will sing songs, read books, bounce, wiggle, and move!
This event is full
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Apr 06, 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.
Crafters' Gathering
Thu, Apr 06, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room A
Bring any low-mess craft (e.g., knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, coloring, origami, jewelry-making) and enjoy meeting and sharing ideas... more
Bring any low-mess craft (e.g., knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, coloring, origami, jewelry-making) and enjoy meeting and sharing ideas with other crafters in this twice-monthly club.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth to 23 months
Thu, Apr 06, 10:30am - 11:00am
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to... more
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to enhance important pre-literacy skills.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Thu, Apr 06, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach pre-reading skills for kids 4-6. Don't forget to pick up a take... more
This is a storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach pre-reading skills for kids 4-6. Don't forget to pick up a take home craft at the circ desk as well!
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Thu, Apr 06, 11:00am - 11:30am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that teach early literacy skills. Please register all attending.
Homeschool Hangout (Grades K-6)
Thu, Apr 06, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Homeschool students are invited to join us for a unique art or STEM program.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Apr 06, 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.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-24 Months
Thu, Apr 06, 11:15am - 11:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
A 30 minute storytime for children ages Birth-24 months, with their caregiver(s). We will sing songs, read books, bounce, wiggle, and move!
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Thu, Apr 06, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
Program for toddlers, 2 and 3 years of age, accompanied by a caregiver to participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities.... more
Program for toddlers, 2 and 3 years of age, accompanied by a caregiver to participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities will help to develop important pre-literacy skills.
This event is full
Library Social Hour
Thu, Apr 06, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
If you are new to the area or a life-long resident, join us for coffee, activities and conversation every 1st Thursday of the month.... more
If you are new to the area or a life-long resident, join us for coffee, activities and conversation every 1st Thursday of the month. Catch up with old friends and meet new ones!
What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline - Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club
Thu, Apr 06, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the discussion of "What Happened to the Bennetts", which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for April 2023. Pick... more
Join the discussion of "What Happened to the Bennetts", which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for April 2023. Pick up a copy at the Highland Branch.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth to 23 months
Thu, Apr 06, 4:00pm - 4:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to... more
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to enhance important pre-literacy skills.
Bridge Building Challenge: Ages 6-11
Thu, Apr 06, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
In this program children, ages 6-11, will make bridges out of different materials. Can your bridge hold 100 pennies?
PreTeen D&D Fantasy Quest (Ages:8-12)
Thu, Apr 06, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us on our journey: Heroes of Sol'an, 5th edition family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. New players welcome.
This event is full
Power Paws for Kids
Thu, Apr 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster Branch - Children's Area
Children will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.
Keep Me In Stitches
Sat, Apr 08, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Interested in any of the needle arts including knit, crochet, cross-stitch, and more? Join us for an opportunity to chat and create.... more
Interested in any of the needle arts including knit, crochet, cross-stitch, and more? Join us for an opportunity to chat and create. Please bring your own projects.
Acrylic Painting (FEE)
Sat, Apr 08, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Join us and create a unique painting with assistance from local artist Mary Stang-Helm. Cash fee of $25 paid at time of event covers... more
Join us and create a unique painting with assistance from local artist Mary Stang-Helm. Cash fee of $25 paid at time of event covers all materials. Class begins promptly at 10:00 a.m.
Building Blocks to Literacy
Sat, Apr 08, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Kids ages 6 months through 3 years old and their caregivers will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Registration for all... more
Kids ages 6 months through 3 years old and their caregivers will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Registration for all children & adults attending is required.
This event is full
Reading to the Dogs - Love on a Leash
Sat, Apr 08, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
In this program participants will get the opportunity to read to a therapy dog. Ages 6-11. Registration is required.
Teen Movie - Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
Sat, Apr 08, 2:00pm - 4:15pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us for a showing of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Must register! Ages 12-17.... more
Join us for a showing of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Must register! Ages 12-17. Rated PG-13. Runtime: 2 hours and 12 minutes.
AARP Safe Driver Classroom Course (FEE)
Mon, Apr 10, 11:00am - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Learn defensive driving techniques, safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road. $20 for AARP members; $25 for... more
Learn defensive driving techniques, safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road. $20 for AARP members; $25 for non-members. To register, call Jeanette Pike of AARP at 219-949-6307.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Apr 10, 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.
When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain
Mon, Apr 10, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Discuss this atmospheric novel of intertwined fate and heart-wrenching suspense.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Mon, Apr 10, 1:00pm - 1:20pm
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a take home craft that teach pre-reading skills for kids 4-6.
Storytime: Ages 4-5
Mon, Apr 10, 1:00pm - 1:20pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime for kids 4-6 years old, featuring stories, music and take home craft, that help develop early literacy skills. Must... more
This is a storytime for kids 4-6 years old, featuring stories, music and take home craft, that help develop early literacy skills. Must register.
LEGO® Club (Grades K-6)
Mon, Apr 10, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Merrillville
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project.
Pajama Storytime: Ages 2-6
Mon, Apr 10, 5:30pm - 6:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime program for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime with books, finger plays, and music. Feel... more
This is a storytime program for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime with books, finger plays, and music. Feel free to wear pajamas!
Adults Get Crafty: Decoupage
Mon, Apr 10, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us as we practice using decoupage to create a decorative piece. Please register!
Arts and Crafts: DIY Paper Roll Phone Holder
Mon, Apr 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us and learn how to create your own mobile phone holder using paper rolls. Registration is required. Supplies for 2 different... more
Join us and learn how to create your own mobile phone holder using paper rolls. Registration is required. Supplies for 2 different holder designs will be provided.
See all events