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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

2025 Friends Officers

President:
  Kathy Mikulich
Vice President:
  Teresa Tressler
Secretary:
   Gayle Krekovich
Treasurer:
   Jennifer Burnison

Download the Membership Form

Upcoming Events
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Brain Benders
Fri, Oct 03, 10:00am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Drop in and make new connections while doing puzzles, games, coloring pages, and other mind stimulating activities. Light refreshments... more
Drop in and make new connections while doing puzzles, games, coloring pages, and other mind stimulating activities. Light refreshments will be served. All supplies will be provided.
Stitch'n Time
Sat, Oct 04, 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.
Cancelled
Yoga & Breathing
Sat, Oct 04, 10:00am - 11:00am
Munster
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.
Keep Me In Stitches
Sat, Oct 04, 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.
Reading to the Dogs - Love on a Leash
Sat, Oct 04, 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.
Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia - Understanding Dementia: A CoAction Learning Series
Mon, Oct 06, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
From the Alzheimer’s Association - this course covers basic information on the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, stages,... more
From the Alzheimer’s Association - this course covers basic information on the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, stages, risk factors, research and FDA-approved treatments.
Citizenship Class
Mon, Oct 06, 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.
Nutrition Education Program
Mon, Oct 06, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Certified nutritionist will provide FREE food and nutrition lessons for individuals and groups in our community.
Cancelled
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Oct 06, 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.
Where the Crawdads Sing (2022) - Movie Monday
Mon, Oct 06, 2:00pm - 4:15pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Popcorn and snacks will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls - Workshop Series Presented by CoAction
Mon, Oct 06, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Do you worry about falling? Join us for a free workshop series designed to manage falls and increase activity levels! Registration with... more
Do you worry about falling? Join us for a free workshop series designed to manage falls and increase activity levels! Registration with CoAction required!
Please contact the library to register for this event.
American Underdog
Mon, Oct 06, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
The inspirational true story of Kurt Warner, who overcomes years of challenges to become a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and... more
The inspirational true story of Kurt Warner, who overcomes years of challenges to become a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. Runtime: 1hr52min. Rated PG.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Oct 06, 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
LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)
Mon, Oct 06, 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
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Mon, Oct 06, 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.
Monday Night Adult D&D
Mon, Oct 06, 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
Teen Craft: Haunted Houses
Mon, Oct 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Teens, ages 12 - 18, can join to make and decorate cardboard haunted houses. Supplies are limited. Registration is required.
Mama Just Wants to Read - A Silent Book Club
Mon, Oct 06, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
What is a silent book club? A social gathering for readers. There is no assigned reading. Bring your own book or borrow one of ours. All... more
What is a silent book club? A social gathering for readers. There is no assigned reading. Bring your own book or borrow one of ours. All readers 18+ are welcome.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, Oct 07, 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.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Oct 07, 10:15am - 11:00am
St. John - Large Meeting 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.
This event is full
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, Oct 07, 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.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Oct 07, 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.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Oct 07, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming 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.
This event is full
Travel Film: Bavaria
Tue, Oct 07, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Bavaria. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, Oct 07, 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.
Caregivers & Coffee Hour
Tue, Oct 07, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Baby, toddler and caregiver hour to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and toys!
Storytime: Ages 4-5
Tue, Oct 07, 11:30am - 12:30pm
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, Oct 07, 11:30am - 12:00pm
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 required.
Toddler Play Session
Tue, Oct 07, 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.
Tween & Teen: Minecraft Meetup
Tue, Oct 07, 3:30pm - 4:45pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Come play Minecraft on our Raspberry Pi computers and Nintendo Switch! For ages 8-18.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Tue, Oct 07, 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
Teen Tuesday - Paper Jack-O-Lanterns
Tue, Oct 07, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Come in to the library and enjoy some crafting!
Art Series for Kids: Ages 6-11
Tue, Oct 07, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Children will learn about famous artists by creating similar masterpieces using a variety of art materials.
Teen: Book Bingo + Genre Swap - Horror Books
Tue, Oct 07, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Interested in horror movies? Like being scared? Want to share your favorite books and games that make you terrified? Come by to learn... more
Interested in horror movies? Like being scared? Want to share your favorite books and games that make you terrified? Come by to learn more about the horror genre and get some recs! Plus book bingo!
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-23 months
Wed, Oct 08, 10:30am - 11:00am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
This story time program is filled with rhymes, books, music and movement designed to foster early literacy skills.
Citizenship Class
Wed, Oct 08, 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.
Caregivers and Coffee Hour
Wed, Oct 08, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Baby, toddler, and caregiver hour to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and toys!
Off the Hook
Wed, Oct 08, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.
Homeschool Hangout (Grades K-6)
Wed, Oct 08, 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!
Kids Discovery Hour (Grades K-6)
Wed, Oct 08, 3:00pm - 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 art projects, movies, science... more
Kids in grades K-6 are welcome to hang out in the children's room after school. Activities may include art projects, movies, science projects, games, and more! No registration required.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Wed, Oct 08, 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
Crochet @ Your Library
Wed, Oct 08, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake Library - 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! 
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister
Wed, Oct 08, 5:30pm - 6:45pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Join the Page Turners Book Discussion as we discuss Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister. Books are available at the circulation... more
Join the Page Turners Book Discussion as we discuss Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister. Books are available at the circulation desk. Please register.
All Ability: Smoking Cauldron Art - Ages 16 & Older
Wed, Oct 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
This month we will be making smoking cauldron art prints! Space is limited. Registration is required for all attendees.
Art Club (Grades K-5)
Wed, Oct 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children, in grades K-5, will create unique works of art while we learn about different art styles, mediums, and famous artists.
This event is full
Power Paws for Kids
Wed, Oct 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville Branch - Children's Area
Children and their families are invited to come and read to certified therapy dogs.
Teen Cartoon School
Wed, Oct 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Like to draw? Like comics and cartoons? Then this is the program for you! Join us on the second Wednesday of every month to learn new... more
Like to draw? Like comics and cartoons? Then this is the program for you! Join us on the second Wednesday of every month to learn new drawing techniques and make friends with your fellow cartoonists!
LEGO® Night for Adults
Wed, Oct 08, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Come to the library to use our LEGO® blocks to build what you want!
Teen Advisory Board & Game Night
Wed, Oct 08, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens (ages 12-17) are invited to become part of the Teen Advisory board. To plan for a future gaming tournament, video and board games... more
Teens (ages 12-17) are invited to become part of the Teen Advisory board. To plan for a future gaming tournament, video and board games will be used. Attendees can earn volunteer hours.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Oct 09, 10:30am - 11:30am
Highland - Meeting Room A
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
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Oct 09, 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.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Oct 09, 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
Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin - Real Reads Nonfiction Book Discussion
Thu, Oct 09, 11:15am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room A
The Real Reads book discussion group will read "Leadership in Turbulent Times" by Goodwin. Books for this discussion can be picked up at... more
The Real Reads book discussion group will read "Leadership in Turbulent Times" by Goodwin. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.
Beginning Crochet
Thu, Oct 09, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Learn the basics of crochet to get you started on a new project.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Thu, Oct 09, 2:00pm - 2:45pm
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
Teen & Tween Homeschool Hangout: STEM Edition
Thu, Oct 09, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Youth (ages 10-17) are invited to register and attend this event where we will be doing various STEM (science, technology, engineering... more
Youth (ages 10-17) are invited to register and attend this event where we will be doing various STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities.
LEGO® Club: Ages 6 - 11
Thu, Oct 09, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children (ages 6-11) may free build with the library's LEGO® bricks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be displayed in... more
Children (ages 6-11) may free build with the library's LEGO® bricks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be displayed in the library until the next LEGO® Club meeting. Please register.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Oct 09, 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
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Thu, Oct 09, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
New venue Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Teens are invited to play in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign with one of our librarians as game master!
This event is full
Paper Star Craft: Ages 6-11
Thu, Oct 09, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Learn how to make a beautiful star to hang in your room!
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, Oct 09, 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.
Livestream Author Talk with Leigh Bardugo - Bestselling Author of Six of Crows
Thu, Oct 09, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Leigh Bardugo about Six of Crows, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the book's... more
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Leigh Bardugo about Six of Crows, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the book's publishing.
Adult Dungeons and Dragons
Thu, Oct 09, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for our Thursday evening group of Adult Dungeons and Dragons! In this group, we'll work our way through the Curse of Strahd module.
This event is full
Mahjong Open Play: Ages 18 & Over
Fri, Oct 10, 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.
Teen and Tween Speedcubing: Ages 8-17 - Advanced Rubik's Cube
Fri, Oct 10, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us as we speed-solve the Rubik's Cube. Rubik's Cubes will be supplied at the program. Feel free to bring your own!
Craft Saturday: 3D Pumpkins
Sat, Oct 11, 10:00am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Paint a 3D wooden pumpkin to add to your fall decor! All materials will be provided. Space is limited. Registration is required.
This event is full
Building Blocks to Literacy: Ages 6 Months to 3 Years
Sat, Oct 11, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Various block stations will be set up for interactive play for children and their caregivers.
See all events