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Statewide Borrowing: Indiana Libraries Working Together for Indiana Readers

What Is It?

Patrons from one Indiana library can visit another

Statewide borrowing in Indiana is a reciprocal borrowing program that covers the entire state. What's reciprocal borrowing, you ask? It's an arrangement between libraries to allow patrons from one library system to check out materials from another library system.

That's right: now with your LCPL card, you can visit libraries outside of Lake County and check out books - no additional cost, no waiting for us to transport the book to you.

Which materials reciprocal borrowers are allowed to check out differs at each library. Some allow DVDs and other AV items in addition to books. If you've found an Indiana library that has the item you need, call first to make sure you can borrow it under the statewide borrowing program!

When you do borrow an item from a different library, you're responsible for the item just as you are when you borrow from us. That means you have to pay any late fees - so make sure you check how long you get to keep an item. It might be different from our loan period! You also must return the item to the library system from which you borrowed it - please don't return items from Porter County Public Library to us!

Library card examples: red and green

How Do I Get Started?

When you find a participating library that has an item you want to borrow, all you have to do is bring your Lake County Public Library card to that library (to prove you're a member in good standing) and they will issue you a reciprocal card. Reciprocal borrowers are usually given a different card than resident borrowers. Here at Lake County Public Library, reciprocal borrowers get a green card, while resident borrowers get a red one.

Once you have your card, you can check out whatever items that library includes under their reciprocal borrowing agreement.

Isn't This Just ILL?

Delivery of books between libraries

ILL (or Inter-Library Loan) is a time-honored tradition amongst libraries. Through ILL, libraries are often able to acquire out-of-print or less-popular books from other libraries for a one-time loan. In order to do this, libraries literally box up the items and ship them to each other. If you've ever paid shipping on a lot of books, you know that this can be costly and that the shipping isn't the fastest!

With reciprocal borrowing you can go and pick up the book yourself, exactly when you want it. You don't have to wait for us to process the order or for the book to ship. It's faster for you and cheaper for the library.

Of course, Lake County Public Library will still offer ILL services! Learn more about ILL and purchase requests.

What about Reciprocal Borrowing at LCPL?

Opening statewide reciprocal borrowing to our patrons means that Lake County Public Library is now also open to patrons of other Indiana libraries. But don't worry - this won't impact availability of materials.

First, reciprocal borrowers at our library are limited to 50 physical items. They don't have access to our electronic resources, like ebooks and downloadable audiobooks. See the full list of reciprocal borrowing privileges.

In addition, we've hosted reciprocal borrowers from other library systems in Lake County for years. Patrons from Hammond, East Chicago, Whiting, Lowell, Gary and Crown Point libraries can all borrow materials from us. While we are opening reciprocal borrowing to the entire state through this agreement, it actually won't expand our area of service that much since we already serve most of the people closest to us. The further away a person lives, the less likely they are to drive out to borrow books: they are more likely to be served by other, closer libraries that are also participating in this program.

Upcoming Events
Mon, May 19, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us for a drop-in playtime where kids can create with playdough clay and toys.

Mon, May 19, 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.

Mon, May 19, 10:30am - 11:00am
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Children will develop pre-reading skills as they enjoy stories, music, and a craft.

Mon, May 19, 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, May 19, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Lessons will include making healthy food choices, importance of physical activity, food safety training and recipe exchanges.

Mon, May 19, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Twenty-one-year-old Tanner needs a place to live and Louise needs a live-in caregiver, how much trouble could they get into?

Mon, May 19, 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, May 19, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
This is an adult program where participants will get to remember pastimes from childhood. We will use Perler or Melty Beads to create... more
This is an adult program where participants will get to remember pastimes from childhood. We will use Perler or Melty Beads to create fun designs.

Mon, May 19, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you. We'll brainstorm and... more
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you. We'll brainstorm and discuss ways to improve teen programs.

Mon, May 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Join us for Creativity Club where we will explore different arts and crafts mediums, learn about artists, and make cool stuff together... more
Join us for Creativity Club where we will explore different arts and crafts mediums, learn about artists, and make cool stuff together like zines and comics. Space is limited so be sure to register.

Mon, May 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
Each month, we will explore a different component of art and do a corresponding activity.

Mon, May 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Teens, ages 11 to 17, can earn volunteer hours during our Summer Reading Program! Attend a training meeting for details. Teens must... more
Teens, ages 11 to 17, can earn volunteer hours during our Summer Reading Program! Attend a training meeting for details. Teens must attend ONE meeting. Please register.

Mon, May 19, 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.

Mon, May 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Join us to paint some spring flowers on canvas boards. Registration is required. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with... more
Join us to paint some spring flowers on canvas boards. Registration is required. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs.

Tue, May 20, 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.

Tue, May 20, 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, May 20, 10:30am - 11:00am
Dyer-Schererville - 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 all attending.
This event is full

Tue, May 20, 10:30am - 11:00am
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
4 and 5 year old children and their caregivers are invited to an early literacy storytime, featuring books, fingerplays, and songs that... more
4 and 5 year old children and their caregivers are invited to an early literacy storytime, featuring books, fingerplays, and songs that teach pre-reading skills and prepare children for school.

Tue, May 20, 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.
This event is full

Tue, May 20, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime program for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and craft, that... more
This is a storytime program for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and craft, that promote early literacy skills. Please register all attending.
This event is full

Tue, May 20, 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, May 20, 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.

Tue, May 20, 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 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, May 20, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room,Hobart Zoom Room
Our May 2025 book chat title is "Killers of a Certain Age" by Deanna Raybourn. Pick up a copy at the Hobart Branch to chat! Contact... more
Our May 2025 book chat title is "Killers of a Certain Age" by Deanna Raybourn. Pick up a copy at the Hobart Branch to chat! Contact hobart@lcplin.org or (219) 942-2243 for more details.

Tue, May 20, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
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.

Cancelled
Tue, May 20, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp
Purdue Extension Lake County, in partnership with the Lake County Health Department, will be offering 4 lessons on how you can "Be Heart... more
Purdue Extension Lake County, in partnership with the Lake County Health Department, will be offering 4 lessons on how you can "Be Heart Smart". Registration is required for all sessions.

Tue, May 20, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Join us for video and board games!

Tue, May 20, 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, May 20, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!

Tue, May 20, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
This overview offers a breakdown of Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, and D, eligibility, and enrollment basics.

Tue, May 20, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join us to learn about the selected art style/movement, and make your own artwork. All materials provided. Please register.

Cancelled
Wed, May 21, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville
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, May 21, 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.

Wed, May 21, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Rachelle Bergstein about her book the Genius of Judy.

Wed, May 21, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.

Wed, May 21, 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.

Wed, May 21, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Join us at the library for a cooking program that teaches kitchen skills, nutrition, and sustainability through interactive lessons and... more
Join us at the library for a cooking program that teaches kitchen skills, nutrition, and sustainability through interactive lessons and tasty food while promoting healthy eating and food science.

Wed, May 21, 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!

Wed, May 21, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Come in to learn about our volunteer opportunities and complete the required paperwork!

Wed, May 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
This session is a great way to begin integrating journaling into your self-care routine. Join us and start your journey toward a more... more
This session is a great way to begin integrating journaling into your self-care routine. Join us and start your journey toward a more mindful and healthier mindset!

Wed, May 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Come out and sing and enjoy the movie Wicked with us! Wear pink and/or green!

Wed, May 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.

Wed, May 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
Children and their families are invited to create and play with LEGO® in an hour of free play and fun. Finished creations will be... more
Children and their families are invited to create and play with LEGO® in an hour of free play and fun. Finished creations will be displayed in the library for the rest of the month!

Wed, May 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens (ages 10 to 17) are invited to watch episodes from an anime series. We'll also have art and craft supplies if you want to draw,... more
Teens (ages 10 to 17) are invited to watch episodes from an anime series. We'll also have art and craft supplies if you want to draw, sketch, or get creative. Snacks will be provided.

Wed, May 21, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Join us for a discussion of "We Are the Light" by Matthew Quick. Copies are available at the front desk.

Thu, May 22, 10:30am - 5:00pm
Hobart Branch - Computer Area
Get personalized tech help at your local library! Our one-on-one sessions focus on building basic technology skills - from using devices... more
Get personalized tech help at your local library! Our one-on-one sessions focus on building basic technology skills - from using devices to navigating online tools.
Please contact the library to register for this event.

Thu, May 22, 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, May 22, 10:30am - 11:30am
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join us for this small group class all about learning the basics of computers! You must bring your own device. Registration required.

Thu, May 22, 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, May 22, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for an informal and relaxed discussion of Timothy Egan's "A Fever in the Heartland". Copies are available at the Munster branch.

Thu, May 22, 2:00pm - 3:15pm
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.
This event is full

Thu, May 22, 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, May 22, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Board Room
Meeting of the Lake County Public Library Board of Trustees

Thu, May 22, 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.

Thu, May 22, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
We've been doing a lot of messy crafts during our craft night - lets make a tie dye apron to help keep the mess down! All supplies are... more
We've been doing a lot of messy crafts during our craft night - lets make a tie dye apron to help keep the mess down! All supplies are provided, but wear something you don't mind getting messy!
This event is full

Thu, May 22, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
En garde! Members from the NWI Fencing Club will demonstrate techniques for Olympic-style fencing. Attendees will be able to learn about... more
En garde! Members from the NWI Fencing Club will demonstrate techniques for Olympic-style fencing. Attendees will be able to learn about this historical sport and see it first-hand!

Fri, May 23, 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, May 24, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Children are welcome to play chess in our meeting room during this open play session! Chess boards will be provided if you don't have... more
Children are welcome to play chess in our meeting room during this open play session! Chess boards will be provided if you don't have one! There is no instructor for this class.

Sat, May 24, 11:00am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Children will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.

Sat, May 24, 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

Tue, May 27, 10:30am - 11:15am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, & music that teach early literacy... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, & music that teach early literacy skills. In person craft time will follow the storytime.
This event is full

Tue, May 27, 10:30am - 11:00am
Dyer-Schererville - 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.
This event is full

Tue, May 27, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Join us and bring your current painting projects/materials for an opportunity to chat and create!

Tue, May 27, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - 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.
This event is full

Tue, May 27, 10:30am - 11:30am
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Homeschoolers, come hang with your peers! Educational and social opportunities will be available.

Tue, May 27, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Children will have fun developing early literary skills as they enjoy stories, songs, crafts and more.

Tue, May 27, 11:00am - 11:30am
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Parents and caregivers of children, birth - 23 months, are welcome to chat with one another and enjoy a refreshment while children... more
Parents and caregivers of children, birth - 23 months, are welcome to chat with one another and enjoy a refreshment while children explore with books and puzzles! Registration is required.

Tue, May 27, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Come play some board games and Nintendo Wii games with us! All ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs.... more
Come play some board games and Nintendo Wii games with us! All ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs. Registration required.

Tue, May 27, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - 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.

Tue, May 27, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland
Join the Fact or Fiction Book Club in discussing "The Boys" by Ron Howard. Copies are available at the Highland Branch.

Tue, May 27, 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Have you seen people playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and want to try it yourself? We will be playing the fantasy RPG "Dragonbane",... more
Have you seen people playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and want to try it yourself? We will be playing the fantasy RPG "Dragonbane", a game similar to D&D. Beginners are welcome. For ages 12-18.

Tue, May 27, 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, May 27, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Have you ever thought Dungeons & Dragons seemed like a cool game, but it should take place in space? If so, StarFinder is the game for... more
Have you ever thought Dungeons & Dragons seemed like a cool game, but it should take place in space? If so, StarFinder is the game for you! Come and enjoy Paizo's ttrpg space adventure game!

Tue, May 27, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join the Calumet Astronomical Society to learn about various cosmic topics!