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Purchase Requests & Interlibrary Loans

Please note that only Full Access patrons may use our Interlibrary Loan/Purchase Request service!

You may have 5 requests active at any one time (requests for digital materials do not count toward this total).

How to Place a Request

  1. Check our catalog first! (Looking for ebooks or downloadable audiobooks? Go here.) Note: You can't complete a purchase request from the LCPL app, but you can do so from your mobile browser.

  2. If the item you want is not in our catalog, click the Purchase Request/Interlibrary Loan link that appears at the top of your search results. (If you're on mobile, tap Search Options to find the Purchase Request/Interlibrary Loan link).

    Desktop:
    The Purchase Request link is located under the search bar in the catalog
    Mobile: where to find the purhcase request link on mobile

  3. In the window that opens, check the box next to OCLC WorldCat and click Set Databases.
    Select WorldCat to find a book not in our collection

  4. Your search will begin running again, but you may have to click Add Pending Results at the top of your search results to see the new items. (Tip: Use "quotation marks" to search for an exact phrase and use the drop-down Search By menu to specify that you're looking for a title. When all else fails, search by ISBN!)
    Tips: Use quotation marks and the drop down menus to make a more specific search. When all else fails, try ISBN!

  5. When you find the title you were looking for, Click the "Place Request" button.
    Click Place Reqest when you find your title.

    If you're not already logged in, you will have to enter your library card and PIN.
    Please note: Requests can only be completed by Full Access card holders.
    If you are blocked from placing a request due to overdue items, please contact us - we want to help!

  6. If you can't find the item in the World Catalog, call us at (219) 769-3541 or use our 24/7 Ask a Librarian service. We'll help you out!

Following these steps works even if the item you need is out of print or very old - if we can't buy it for our collection, we'll find another library that will loan it to us!

Still Have Questions?

See our Interlibrary Loan & Purchase Request FAQs. If you need more help, you can always use our Ask a Librarian form - available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


Request eBooks & eAudiobooks

You can also request digital materials to add to the library's Overdrive/Libby collection using Notify Me tags! Here's how.

Some things to keep in mind: 

  • First, check our digital collection to see if we have the item. You should check both Overdrive/Libby and Hoopla

  • If the title is not available in EITHER collection, search for it in Overdrive/Libby and add a Notify Me tag to the title.
    Please note: If the title is available in Hoopla, we will not purchase it for Overdrive/Libby.

  • If we purchase the title, you'll be notified - but you won't be automatically added to the holds list. This is because you get unlimited Notify Me tags and we can't choose for you which titles you want to use your holds on!

  • Your tags are anonymous - we only see the number of tags on a title, not any information about you.

New at LCPL

Looking for something new? These titles have just hit our shelves!

Upcoming Events
Thu, Jul 31, 10:00am - 5:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
All ages are welcome to decorate a paper tile that will be used in a community art project. An assortment of art supplies will be... more
All ages are welcome to decorate a paper tile that will be used in a community art project. An assortment of art supplies will be available. Drop in any time between 10-5. No registration necessary.

Thu, Jul 31, 10:30am - 11:30am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children ages 4-5, with caregivers, will interact at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy, social, and... more
Children ages 4-5, with caregivers, will interact at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy, social, and other skills. Play also nurtures creativity. Please register.
This event is full

Thu, Jul 31, 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 31, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville Branch Library - East Parking Lot
Explore a real fire truck and beat the heat with the spray from the Schererville Fire Department's tallest and biggest hose. Bring a... more
Explore a real fire truck and beat the heat with the spray from the Schererville Fire Department's tallest and biggest hose. Bring a towel and wear your swimsuit!

Thu, Jul 31, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Branch - Patio Area
Ages 6 and older can bring a plain white, pre-washed, cotton article of clothing , and maybe an adult to help. Come in during the 2 hour... more
Ages 6 and older can bring a plain white, pre-washed, cotton article of clothing , and maybe an adult to help. Come in during the 2 hour window.

Thu, Jul 31, 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

Thu, Jul 31, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Learn driving techniques, proven safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road. Class fee is $20 for AARP members & $25 for... more
Learn driving techniques, proven safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road. Class fee is $20 for AARP members & $25 for non-members.

Thu, Jul 31, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Pria Anand about The Mind Electric.

Cancelled
Thu, Jul 31, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
If you're up for some Minecraft fun join us for some building, exploring, and maybe even a little competition. Bring your friends, bring... more
If you're up for some Minecraft fun join us for some building, exploring, and maybe even a little competition. Bring your friends, bring your creativity, and let's make some awesome memories!

Cancelled
Thu, Jul 31, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
Every last Thursday, meet for an hour to read, drink tea or coffee, and have casual conversations about reading.

Thu, Jul 31, 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

Fri, Aug 01, 9:00am - 5:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Drop off your favorite teddy bear or stuffy and let them spend the weekend in the library!

Fri, Aug 01, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us for a different family film each Friday. Snacks will be provided too!

Sat, Aug 02, 9:30am - 12:30pm
Hobart - Programming 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.

Sat, Aug 02, 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.

Sat, Aug 02, 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.

Sat, Aug 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
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, Aug 04, 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, Aug 04, 2:00pm - 3:45pm
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, Aug 04, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Here is an original film about multiple families and a special place they inhabit. The story travels through generations, capturing the... more
Here is an original film about multiple families and a special place they inhabit. The story travels through generations, capturing the most relatable of human experiences.

Mon, Aug 04, 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.

Mon, Aug 04, 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

Tue, Aug 05, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Athens. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.

Tue, Aug 05, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Jay Falk about The Bird Book.

Tue, Aug 05, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Age-appropriate, research-based safety lessons. Questions? Call Fair Haven's Jennifer Potter at (219) 961-4357. All adults attending... more
Age-appropriate, research-based safety lessons. Questions? Call Fair Haven's Jennifer Potter at (219) 961-4357. All adults attending must be accompanied by a child. All children must be with an adult.

Tue, Aug 05, 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.

Rescheduled
Tue, Aug 05, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
New date Tuesday, August 19, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!

Cancelled
Tue, Aug 05, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!

Tue, Aug 05, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join Coates Inc. for a free interactive series of college & career workshops designed to help high school students prepare for life... more
Join Coates Inc. for a free interactive series of college & career workshops designed to help high school students prepare for life after graduation. High school-aged teens (ages 14-18) are welcome.

Wed, Aug 06, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.

Wed, Aug 06, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join us at the library for a fun and creative workshop focused on the art of flash fiction!

Wed, Aug 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.

Wed, Aug 06, 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! 

Cancelled
Wed, Aug 06, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville
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.

Cancelled
Wed, Aug 06, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
Come to the library to use our LEGO® blocks to build what you want.

Thu, Aug 07, 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, Aug 07, 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, Aug 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.

Thu, Aug 07, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the discussion of Better the Blood, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for August. Pick up a copy at the... more
Join the discussion of Better the Blood, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for August. Pick up a copy at the Highland Branch.

Thu, Aug 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.

Thu, Aug 07, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
New venue Merrillville - Meeting Room A
The Friends Pre-Sale is from 4-7pm. You can pay to become a Friends Member at the door. Thousands of books, dvds, and cds are available... more
The Friends Pre-Sale is from 4-7pm. You can pay to become a Friends Member at the door. Thousands of books, dvds, and cds are available at fantastic prices!

Thu, Aug 07, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us on a family friendly, Dungeons and Dragons, campaign for preteens. We'll be referencing Heroes of Sol'an, 5th edition, for this... more
Join us on a family friendly, Dungeons and Dragons, campaign for preteens. We'll be referencing Heroes of Sol'an, 5th edition, for this adventure. New players are welcome.

Thu, Aug 07, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join Coates Inc. for a free interactive series of college & career workshops designed to help high school students prepare for life... more
Join Coates Inc. for a free interactive series of college & career workshops designed to help high school students prepare for life after graduation. High school-aged teens (ages 14-18) are welcome.

Thu, Aug 07, 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

Fri, Aug 08, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
The Friends Book Sale is open to anyone interested in browsing through thousands of books, dvds, and cds-- all at fantastic prices!

Fri, Aug 08, 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

Sat, Aug 09, 9:00am - 9:30am
Woodland Park - 1215 E 45th Ave
Young children and their families are invited to join us at Woodland Park for a storytime with books, songs, rhymes, and a guided tour... more
Young children and their families are invited to join us at Woodland Park for a storytime with books, songs, rhymes, and a guided tour through the on-site Story Walk. 

Sat, Aug 09, 9:30am - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
The Friends Book Sale is open to anyone interested in browsing through thousands of books, dvds, and cds-- all at fantastic prices!

Sat, Aug 09, 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.

Sat, Aug 09, 11:00am - 2:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room,Meeting Room A
Join the Highland Arts Council for an exciting experience filled with fun and engaging games during the Highland Arts Walk Workshops!