Imagination Library Co-Sponsors

Platinum Level Supporters

These generous community leaders have made Dolly Parton's Imagination Library available to hundreds more children in Lake County, allowing us to expand the program far beyond our original capabilities. The Imagination Library would not be possible without them!

Lakeshore PBS logo

Imagination Library Sponsors

The Imagination Library thrives with the help of our generous sponsors. These community members have made a real difference in the lives of Lake County children and helped us put books in many more homes!

Gold Level Sponsors:

Become our first!

Silver Level Sponsors:

The Acorn Gates Book Club

Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church

Interested in becoming a sponsor or co-sponsor? Check out our donation page!

Upcoming Events

Coffee & Coloring

Tue, Dec 31, 11:00am - 12:30pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room

Relax via this coloring for adults open session. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while getting creative with no pressure for... more

Relax via this coloring for adults open session. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while getting creative with no pressure for perfection. Coloring materials provided.

Family Noon Year's Eve

Tue, Dec 31, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Merrillville - Children's Programming Room

Join us for an early New Year's Eve Celebration! We'll make a party hat, do the limbo, and gather to bring in the Noon Year together.

Noon Year's Eve: Ages Birth to 6 Years Old

Tue, Dec 31, 11:30am - 12:00pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room

Join us for a special storytime, for our friends who can't always make it to midnight, featuring songs, rhymes, and crafts.

This event is full

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-23 Months

Thu, Jan 02, 10:15am - 10:45am

St. John - Large Meeting Room

This half hour lap-sit program uses songs and rhymes to foster language development.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months

Thu, Jan 02, 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, Jan 02, 10:30am - 11:15am

Highland - Children's Programming Room

Join us for this storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a take home craft that promote pre-reading skills for kids 4-6.

This event is full

Crafters Gathering

Thu, Jan 02, 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.

Thursday Threaders

Thu, Jan 02, 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.

Homeschool Hangout

Thu, Jan 02, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room

Elementary aged homeschool students are invited to join us for a unique art or STEM project each month.

Storytime: Ages 2-3

Thu, Jan 02, 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 craft, that promote... more

This is a 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.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-23 Months

Thu, Jan 02, 11:15am - 12:00pm

St. John - Large Meeting Room

This half hour lap-sit program uses songs and rhymes to foster language development.

Storytime: Ages 2-3

Thu, Jan 02, 11:30am - 12:15pm

Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room

Toddlers ages 2 and 3, accompanied by a caregiver, will participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities will help... more

Toddlers ages 2 and 3, accompanied by a caregiver, will participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities will help to develop important pre-literacy skills.

Family Game Day! - Board Games and Giant Games

Thu, Jan 02, 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Highland - Children's Programming Room

Families may join us to play board games and giant games! Please register all planning to attend.

Zero Days by Ruth Ware - Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club

Thu, Jan 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Highland - Meeting Room A

Join the discussion of Zero Days by Ruth Ware, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for January. Pick up a copy at... more

Join the discussion of Zero Days by Ruth Ware, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for January. Pick up a copy at the Highland Branch.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

Thu, Jan 02, 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

Power Paws for Kids

Thu, Jan 02, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Munster Branch Library - Children's Area

In this program, children will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.

Stitch'n Time

Sat, Jan 04, 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.

Yoga & Breathing

Sat, Jan 04, 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.

Reading to the Dogs - Love on a Leash

Sat, Jan 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.

Mah Jongg Instruction at the Library

Sat, Jan 04, 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room

Learn how to play Mah Jongg at the library or join the group if you already know the rules. Beginners are welcome! Please register. Ages... more

Learn how to play Mah Jongg at the library or join the group if you already know the rules. Beginners are welcome! Please register. Ages 18 and older.

North By Northwest - Classic Film

Sat, Jan 04, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room

Cary Grant stars as an innocent man mistaken for a spy in one of director Alfred Hitchcock's greatest thrillers. Rating: TV-PG Runtime:... more

Cary Grant stars as an innocent man mistaken for a spy in one of director Alfred Hitchcock's greatest thrillers. Rating: TV-PG Runtime: 136 minutes.

Three Kings Day Celebration!

Mon, Jan 06, 1:00pm - 1:30pm

Hobart - Children's Program Room

Toddlers and pre-k kids are warmly invited to join us for a fun Three Kings Day celebration! Together we’ll explore the meaning of the... more

Toddlers and pre-k kids are warmly invited to join us for a fun Three Kings Day celebration! Together we’ll explore the meaning of the day through stories, traditions, and a craft.

Little Women (2019)

Mon, Jan 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.

Bob Marley: One Love

Mon, Jan 06, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room

The movie tells the story of the life of musician Bob Marley. Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 107 minutes.

LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)

Mon, Jan 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.

Teen Craft: New Year Bullet Journaling

Mon, Jan 06, 5:00pm - 6:00pm

Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)

Teens, prep a bullet journal to help organize 2025! Materials, including journal, will be provided. Please register.

Teen Advisory Board

Mon, Jan 06, 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.

Cancelled

Teen Advisory Board

Mon, Jan 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Munster

Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens, ages 11 - 17, can attend. Zoom available.... more

Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens, ages 11 - 17, can attend. Zoom available. Please register.

Teen Anime Club

Mon, Jan 06, 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.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months

Tue, Jan 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 4-6

Tue, Jan 07, 10:15am - 11:00am

St. John - Large Meeting Room

Children will develop pre-reading skills as they enjoy stories, music, and a craft.

Storytime: Ages 2-3

Tue, Jan 07, 10:30am - 11:00am

Highland - Children's Programming Room

Join us for a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that... more

Join us for a 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, Jan 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, music,... 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, Jan 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.

Travel Film: Rome

Tue, Jan 07, 10:30am - 11:30am

St. John - Children's Program Room

Join us for this month's travel film about Rome. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months

Tue, Jan 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, Jan 07, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Merrillville - Children's Programming Room

Join fellow baby and toddler caregivers after our story time for a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation. Toys will be available... more

Join fellow baby and toddler caregivers after our story time for a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation. Toys will be available for children to play with. Storytime attendance is not required.

Storytime: Ages 4-5

Tue, Jan 07, 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, Jan 07, 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.

Toddler Play Session

Tue, Jan 07, 12:00pm - 12:40pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room

Children, ages 2 to 4, are invited to join us to play with unique toys and socialize.

Composting 101 - With Lake County Solid Waste Management District

Tue, Jan 07, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Hobart - Large Meeting Room

Join us for a fun and educational afternoon learning about backyard composting! Learn about the requirements to successfully compost. ... more

Join us for a fun and educational afternoon learning about backyard composting! Learn about the requirements to successfully compost. Please register.

Safer Cleaning Solutions - With Lake County Solid Waste Management District

Tue, Jan 07, 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room

Join us for a fun and educational afternoon to discuss healthier cleaning solutions! Participants will make a bottle of their very own... more

Join us for a fun and educational afternoon to discuss healthier cleaning solutions! Participants will make a bottle of their very own earth-friendly cleaner.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

Tue, Jan 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

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth – 23 Months

Wed, Jan 08, 10:30am - 11:00am

Merrillville - Children's Programming Room

Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books,... more

Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Caregivers & Coffee Hour

Wed, Jan 08, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Merrillville - Children's Programming Room

Join fellow baby and toddler caregivers after our storytime for a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation. Toys will be available for... more

Join fellow baby and toddler caregivers after our storytime for a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation. Toys will be available for children to play. Storytime attendance is not required.

Off the Hook

Wed, Jan 08, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

St. John - Large Meeting Room

Bring your current craft project and enjoy the conversation! All crafts are welcome!

Homeschool Hangout (Grades K-6)

Wed, Jan 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!

Teen Gaming

Wed, Jan 08, 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room

Come hang out at the library and play the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Wii and board games! Games and snacks provided. Ages 12-18.

Kids Discovery Hour (Grades K-6)

Wed, Jan 08, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

St. John - Children's Program Room

Kids in grades K-6 are welcome to hang out in the children's room after school. Activities may include Lego, art projects, movies, and... more

Kids in grades K-6 are welcome to hang out in the children's room after school. Activities may include Lego, art projects, movies, and more! No registration required.

Crochet @ Your Library

Wed, Jan 08, 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Cedar Lake - Public Tables

Join us and work on your crafts at the library! Bring yarn and a size H crochet hook or size 7 knitting needles and cotton yarn - or... more

Join us and work on your crafts at the library! Bring yarn and a size H crochet hook or size 7 knitting needles and cotton yarn - or bring along a project you're already working on!

Pajama Storytime

Wed, Jan 08, 5:00pm - 5:30pm

Hobart - Children's Program Room

Join us for an evening of stories, songs, activities, and more. Feel free to come in your pajamas!

Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh

Wed, Jan 08, 5:30pm - 6:45pm

St. John - Large Meeting Room

Join the Page Turners Book Discussion as we discuss Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh. Books are available at the circulation... more

Join the Page Turners Book Discussion as we discuss Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh. Books are available at the circulation desk. Please register.

Craft Club (K-6)

Wed, Jan 08, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room

Want to do a craft? Come make awesome things with different materials every month that you can take home and enjoy.

Arts & Crafts for Adults: Desktop Calendar

Wed, Jan 08, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room

Join us every other month for Arts & Crafts for Adults. It's a New Year, New Calendar. Make a DIY desktop calendar out of a provided... more

Join us every other month for Arts & Crafts for Adults. It's a New Year, New Calendar. Make a DIY desktop calendar out of a provided card and envelope with different colors to choose from!

Power Paws for Kids

Wed, Jan 08, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Merrillville Branch Library - Children's Section

All children and their families are invited to come and read to certified therapy dogs!

Teens & Tweens Fun with Food: Pizza Edition!!

Wed, Jan 08, 6:00pm - 7:15pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room

Teens & Tweens (ages 10 to 15) will be taken on a Food Adventure. In January, we will be making pizza. To ensure there is enough... more

Teens & Tweens (ages 10 to 15) will be taken on a Food Adventure. In January, we will be making pizza. To ensure there is enough supplies and to address food allergies, registration is required.

This event is full

All Ability: Make Your Own Puzzle

Wed, Jan 08, 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Highland - Meeting Room A

This month we will be making our own puzzles. Space is limited. Registration is required for all attendees.

Teen Cartoon School

Wed, Jan 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!

Thursday Threaders

Thu, Jan 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.

Be Heart Smart - Presented by Linda Curley - Purdue Extension Educator

Thu, Jan 09, 1:00pm - 2:30pm

St. John - Large Meeting Room

This four-part series will help participants improve their heart health! Topics include: Know Your Risks, Know Your Numbers, Heart... more

This four-part series will help participants improve their heart health! Topics include: Know Your Risks, Know Your Numbers, Heart Healthy Eating, and Take Action. Registration Required.

This event is full

Storytime: Ages 4-6

Thu, Jan 09, 1:30pm - 2:15pm

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.

Hobby Hour

Thu, Jan 09, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room

Don't have the space at home for your hobby? Bring it to our meeting room and have a whole rectangular table to work on (more if less... more

Don't have the space at home for your hobby? Bring it to our meeting room and have a whole rectangular table to work on (more if less people attend). This will be every 2nd Thursday for 2 hours.

Teen Pictionary®

Thu, Jan 09, 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Hobart - Programming Room

Teens, join us at the library for fun, fast-paced games of Pictionary® where your artistic skills and quick thinking are put to the... more

Teens, join us at the library for fun, fast-paced games of Pictionary® where your artistic skills and quick thinking are put to the test. Snacks, prizes, and refreshments provided.

LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)

Thu, Jan 09, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Highland - 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.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

Thu, Jan 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.

Dungeons and Dragons for Adults

Thu, Jan 09, 6:00pm - 8:15pm

Munster - Large Meeting Room

D&D comes to the Munster Branch Library! Join our campaign for Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk and get to the bottom of what... more

D&D comes to the Munster Branch Library! Join our campaign for Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk and get to the bottom of what is plaguing the town of Phandalin.

This event is full

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