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Friends of the Lake County Public Library

We are an independent, nonprofit citizens' organization dedicated to assisting in the development of the Lake County Public Library into one of the finest community libraries.

For example, did you know that LCPL's Summer Reading events wouldn't happen if it wasn't for the Friends of the Library? The Friends support LCPL events by covering supply costs and speaker fees so we're able to hold amazing programs and invite presenters to the library - which helps everyone in Lake County learn new things and expand their horizons!

Fellowship with other library Friends

Raise funds in support of the library

Invest in Lake County Public Library's future

Encourage gifts, endowments, and memorials

Nurture knowledge of the library

Develop library services & special community programs

Stimulate public support

Support the Friends

There are many ways you can support the Friends of the Library and Summer Reading!

Visit the book sale room or the sale racks at the branches. We also hold an annual book sale with many more items. All proceeds from these sales go to the Friends.

And of course you can always join the Friends!

Join the Friends!

Why We Need You:

  • LCPL's Summer Reading Challenge is 100% funded by the Friends of the Library! The Friends wisely use membership fees and donations to sponsor fun programs and classes, as well as prizes.

  • The FRIENDS sponsor LCPL's 1000 Books Before Kindergarten reading challenge.

  • FRIENDS contribute to the acquisition of books, video and audio materials, equipment, and other library materials for the entire community.

  • The FRIENDS, by spreading knowledge of the Library, will enlarge its place in Lake County's cultural, civic, scientific and business life, and increase its daily use in the community.

  • FRIENDS encourage gifts of books and special collections to the Lake County Public Library which would be lost to the public were it not for your support.

Being a FRIEND Has Benefits!

Your FRIENDS organization runs an in-house Book Sale Room, open five days a week. Our annual book sales enrich library resources and secure library equipment for purposes of public use and enjoyment. Friends get early access to the annual Fall Book Sale!

Membership dues to the FRIENDS, as well as monetary gifts and book contributions, are deductible for income tax purposes.

Another -- more personal -- benefit of being a FRIEND, is the opportunity to meet other Lake County Public Library patrons who are equally interested in supporting the Library.

The quality of our Library depends on your participation. Your support will ensure continued quality library service.

Be a FRIEND and Join Today!!

If you would like to be a FRIEND, stop by the library to pick up the membership form or download the form and mail it to:

Lake County Public Library
1919 W 81st Ave
Merrillville, Indiana
46410

2023 Friends Officers

President:
  Kathy Mikulich
Vice President:
  Teresa Tressler
Secretary:
   Jennifer LeRose
Treasurer:
   Jennifer Burnison

Download the Membership Form

Upcoming Events
Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 11:00am
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Children are welcome to come and play chess in our meeting room! Chess boards will be provided if you don't have one!

Rescheduled
Sat, Jun 28, 10:00am - 12:00pm
New date Saturday, June 28, 10:00am - 11:00am
Dyer-Schererville
Children are welcome to come and play chess in our meeting room! Chess boards will be provided if you don't have one!

Sat, Jun 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Teens will learn how to tie dye! You must bring your own 100% white cotton t-shirt. Event will be outside, weather permitting. Ages... more
Teens will learn how to tie dye! You must bring your own 100% white cotton t-shirt. Event will be outside, weather permitting. Ages 12-18. Registration required.

Sat, Jun 28, 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.
This event is full

Sat, Jun 28, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Stop in to build your own LEGO® creation or pick a board game to play instead. A Nintendo Switch will also be available to play. Snacks... more
Stop in to build your own LEGO® creation or pick a board game to play instead. A Nintendo Switch will also be available to play. Snacks will be provided. Registration required. Ages 12 - 18.

Cancelled
Mon, Jun 30, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville
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, Jun 30, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Staff from the Lake County Solid Waste Management District will visit us to demonstrate how to make a craft from reusable materials.... more
Staff from the Lake County Solid Waste Management District will visit us to demonstrate how to make a craft from reusable materials. Pleases register so we have enough supplies.

Mon, Jun 30, 1:30pm - 3:15pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Bring the whole family! The room will be lighter, the volume will be lower, and audience members can move around, talk, and sing. Snacks... more
Bring the whole family! The room will be lighter, the volume will be lower, and audience members can move around, talk, and sing. Snacks are welcome! Rated PG; 92 minute runtime.

Mon, Jun 30, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Ready - set - race! Players can compete at Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch. If you have Joycon controllers, bring them! For ages 12-18.

Mon, Jun 30, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us for Family Game Day! Play one of our many board games or our Nintendo Switch. All games are provided. Bring your friends and... more
Join us for Family Game Day! Play one of our many board games or our Nintendo Switch. All games are provided. Bring your friends and family to join in on the fun! All ages are welcome.

Mon, Jun 30, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville Branch Library - 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, Jun 30, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
A woman discovers a rare book that has connections to her past, which leads her to find long-held secrets about her family.

Tue, Jul 01, 10:15am - 11:00am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Children will develop pre-reading skills as they enjoy stories, music, and a craft.

Tue, Jul 01, 10:15am - 10:45am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help... more
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
This event is full

Tue, Jul 01, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Spain. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.

Tue, Jul 01, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote early literacy... more
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote early literacy skills. Please register all attending. Registration opens June 1st.
This event is full

Tue, Jul 01, 10:30am - 11:00am
Hobart - Children's Program 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, Jul 01, 10:30am - 11:00am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Toddlers and their adult caregivers will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft.

Tue, Jul 01, 11:00am - 11:30am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help... more
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Tue, Jul 01, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
A great way to connect with other baby and toddler caregivers. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while children play with toys provided.... more
A great way to connect with other baby and toddler caregivers. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while children play with toys provided. Story time attendance is not required.

Tue, Jul 01, 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.

Tue, Jul 01, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
In this program, toddlers and their adult caregivers will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft. Registration is... more
In this program, toddlers and their adult caregivers will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft. Registration is required.
This event is full

Tue, Jul 01, 12:00pm - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children, ages 2-5, are invited to join us in the Children's Programming Room to play with unique toys and socialize.

Tue, Jul 01, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Students will play an environmentally-themed BINGO and learn how they can help protect their environment. Small prizes will be awarded.

Tue, Jul 01, 1:00pm - 2:15pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this introductory lecture, we’ll review how ads target us online, how to limit tracking, where to find browser settings and... more
In this introductory lecture, we’ll review how ads target us online, how to limit tracking, where to find browser settings and extensions to better control how our information is shared.

Tue, Jul 01, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Children and their families will enjoy 15 different animals including: a bat, fox, sugar glider, turtle, parrot, snake, tarantula and... more
Children and their families will enjoy 15 different animals including: a bat, fox, sugar glider, turtle, parrot, snake, tarantula and many more!
This event is full

Tue, Jul 01, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join us to make slime in your color of choice!

Tue, Jul 01, 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.

Tue, Jul 01, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!

Cancelled
Wed, Jul 02, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Munster
Be Heart Smart is a multi-session, lecture-based program for individuals who want to learn more about preventing heart disease by making... more
Be Heart Smart is a multi-session, lecture-based program for individuals who want to learn more about preventing heart disease by making heart-healthy lifestyle changes.

Wed, Jul 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.

Wed, Jul 02, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
School-age children will play an environmentally-themed BINGO and learn how they can help protect their environment. Small prizes will... more
School-age children will play an environmentally-themed BINGO and learn how they can help protect their environment. Small prizes will be awarded.

Wed, Jul 02, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Incorporate journaling into your self-care routine. Creative prompts tie in to the summer reading theme.

Wed, Jul 02, 2:00pm - 2:45pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Kids will be playing a traditional Bingo game using environmental pictures and phrases.

Wed, Jul 02, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children, ages 6-11, will use shells, sponges, recycled materials and various craft supplies to make a beautiful coral reef creation.... more
Children, ages 6-11, will use shells, sponges, recycled materials and various craft supplies to make a beautiful coral reef creation. Wear old clothes you can get messy. Registration required.
This event is full

Wed, Jul 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
School age children will create a different masterpiece each week highlighting a different famous artist or art style.
This event is full

Wed, Jul 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library to make a polymer clay miniature. You can create your own design or examples will be provided. Supplies are... more
Join us at the library to make a polymer clay miniature. You can create your own design or examples will be provided. Supplies are limited. Registration is required. Ages 12-18.

Wed, Jul 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
We will be creating art like Michelangelo, Warhol, and other master artists!

Wed, Jul 02, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville Branch Library - 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

Wed, Jul 02, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake Branch - 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, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens & tweens (ages 10-17) will be taken on a food adventure. In July, we will be making Fourth of July Treats.To ensure there are... more
Teens & tweens (ages 10-17) will be taken on a food adventure. In July, we will be making Fourth of July Treats.To ensure there are enough supplies and to address allergies,registration is required.
This event is full

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Why should the kids get to have all the fun? Join us the 1st Wednesday of each month for adult Dungeons & Dragons and experience the... more
Why should the kids get to have all the fun? Join us the 1st Wednesday of each month for adult Dungeons & Dragons and experience the adventure! Seats are limited, so registration is required.
This event is full

Wed, Jul 02, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Come to the Lake Station-New Chicago branch to use our LEGO® blocks to build what you want. Every 1st Wednesday.

Thu, Jul 03, 10:00am - 11:30am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Preschoolers and their families are invited to play with an assortment of blocks and learn how this activity fosters development.

Thu, Jul 03, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
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 during this program.  

Thu, Jul 03, 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, Jul 03, 10:30am - 11:15am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a craft that promote pre-reading skills for kids 4-6. Registration opens June 1st. 
This event is full

Thu, Jul 03, 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.

Cancelled
Thu, Jul 03, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville
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, Jul 03, 11:00am - 11:30am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote early... more
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote early literacy skills. Please register all attending.

Thu, Jul 03, 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.

Thu, Jul 03, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
St. John - Children's Program Room
Preschoolers and their families are invited to play with an assortment of blocks and learn how this activity fosters development.

Sat, Jul 05, 9:30am - 12:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Adults and teens, please join us with your projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) to chat and stitch! Bring your... more
Adults and teens, please join us with your projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) to chat and stitch! Bring your supplies, and other attendees can instruct on crochet as needed.

Rescheduled
Sat, Jul 05, 10:00am - 12:00pm
New date Saturday, July 26, 10:00am - 12:00pm
St. John
Create a work of art using various art supplies and assigned prompts. All materials will be provided. Space is limited. Register online.

Sat, Jul 05, 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.

Mon, Jul 07, 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.
This event is full

Mon, Jul 07, 1:30pm - 3:15pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Bring the whole family! The room will be lighter, the volume will be lower, and audience members can move around, talk, and sing. Snacks... more
Bring the whole family! The room will be lighter, the volume will be lower, and audience members can move around, talk, and sing. Snacks are welcome! Rated PG; 100 minute runtime.

Mon, Jul 07, 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
The tale of Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power and Glinda,... more
The tale of Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power and Glinda, a popular young woman, who has yet to discover her true heart.

Mon, Jul 07, 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.

Mon, Jul 07, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
How fast are you? Test your skill by seeing if you can beat our challenges in less than 60 seconds. First through third place will go on... more
How fast are you? Test your skill by seeing if you can beat our challenges in less than 60 seconds. First through third place will go on our leader board. Compete all summer for a grand prize.

Mon, Jul 07, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Sing, dance, and act out scenes with the family Madrigal in our interactive event. Remember: we don't talk about Bruno.

Mon, Jul 07, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Come join us for some fun experimenting with technology and playing around with robotics!
This event is full

Mon, Jul 07, 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. 

Mon, Jul 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville Branch Library - 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.

Mon, Jul 07, 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.

Mon, Jul 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Using lengths of yarn and a stick, teens will create a unique decoration. All supplies and snacks will be provided. Teens 12 – 18.... more
Using lengths of yarn and a stick, teens will create a unique decoration. All supplies and snacks will be provided. Teens 12 – 18. Space is limited. Registration required.

Mon, Jul 07, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Steel yourself for the rest of the week with Monday Night Adult D&D! We'll be following 5e rules and will be running the Out of the... more
Steel yourself for the rest of the week with Monday Night Adult D&D! We'll be following 5e rules and will be running the Out of the Abyss campaign. Beginners and experienced players welcome!
This event is full