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kids activities: ruler, scissors, glue, books, crayons

Keep 'Em Busy

Educational Fun for Kids

Stuck at home? Your kids can still have fun - and keep up those important reading (and pre-reading) skills, too.

This page is full of activities created and selected specially by LCPL youth services librarians just for our youngest patrons.

Show Us Your Work!

Have you tried an activity or challenge from this page? Read a book we recommended? Send an email to kids@lcplin.org with pictures or a book review and we'll display them on a special page.

See what kids have shared with us so far!

 

Crafts & Activities

Video Guides

Check out our playlist of crafts and activities you can enjoy with your kids!



Printables and Other Fun

Simple games, challenges, and activities for you and your child. You can print these at home, or simply open them on your computer or tablet and follow the instructions.

Shape Strength Test Needs paper, tape, and heavy items (like books!)

Home Scavenger Hunt

Building with Cardboard Cut-Outs Needs cardboard (like cereal boxes) and scissors

Make a Menu Needs old magazines/grocery flyers, scissors, glue/tape, paper, markers

Outside Scavenger Hunt

ABC Sensory Bins Needs a container and pasta/rice/beans

Library Summer Logo Challenge

Fairy Home Challenge

Fairy Tale Find-It

Mermaid Treasure Hunt

Pirate Treasure Hunt

Fall Bucket List

Roll Your Own Monster

Bake Your Own Dog Treats

How to Make Cat Treats

Art Club:

Featured Artist: Frida Kahlo

Cave Paintings

Hispanic Heritage Month

Claude Monet, Light & Shadow

African American Artists

Playing Our Way to Literacy: Small activities to do each day, week by week, to build your child's pre-reading skills at home.

Week One: Color  -  Black and White

Week Two: Color  -  Black and White

Week Three: Color - Black and White

Week Four: Color - Black and White

Week Five: Color - Black and White

Week Six: Color - Black and White

Week Seven: Color - Black and White

Week Eight: Color - Black and White

Week Nine: Color - Black and White

Week Ten: Color - Black and White

Week Eleven: Color - Black and White

Week Twelve: Color - Black and White

Week Thirteen: Color - Black and White

Week Fourteen: Color - Black and White

Week Fifteen: Color - Black and White

Week Sixteen: Color - Black and White

Week Seventeen: Color - Black and White

Week Eighteen: Color - Black and White

Science, Technology, Engineering, and MathSTEAM Challenges

Long Cut Challenge Needs paper, scissors

Tube Stack Challenge Needs cardboard tubes, scissors

Marble Run Needs a marble or ball, tape

Newspaper Building Needs newspapers, tape

Foil Boat Needs foil. Optional: pennies or other weights

Catapult Needs craft sticks, rubber bands, spoon, cotton ball or crumpled paper

LEGO Maze Needs LEGO bricks or other building blocks, a marble

Book Dominoes Needs books

Monthly STEAM Challenges:

• September: Sharks
Try the activities - Watch the video

• October: Pirates
Try the activities - Watch the video

• November: Native American Nations
Try the activities - Watch the video

• December: Cookie Chemistry
Try the activities - Watch the video

• January 2021: True or False
Try the activities - Watch the video

• February 2021: Photography
Try the Activities - Watch the Video

• March 2021: Puzzles and Critical Thinking 
Watch the Video - Try the Activities

• April 2021: Secret Codes
Watch the Video - Download the PDF

Step Into STEAM (for ages 2-6):

• September: Rainbows
Try the activities - Watch the Video

• October: Pumpkins
Try the activities - Watch the Video

• November: Making Butter
Try the activities - Watch the Video

• December: Coding
Try the activities - Watch the video

• January: Shapes
Try the activities - Watch the video

• February: Color Mixing
Watch the Video - Try the Activities

• March: Leprechaun Traps 
Watch the Video - Try the Activities

• April: Recycling
Watch the Video - Download the PDF

• May: Flashlight Exploration
Watch the Video - Download the PDF

• June: Animal Exploration
Watch the Video - Download the PDF

• July: Counting in Nature
Watch the Video - Download the PDF

Upcoming Events
Stitch'n Time
Sat, Nov 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.
Acrylic Painting (FEE)
Sat, Nov 02, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Create a unique painting with assistance from local artist Mary Stang-Helm. Cash fee of $25 paid at time of event covers all materials.... more
Create a unique painting with assistance from local artist Mary Stang-Helm. Cash fee of $25 paid at time of event covers all materials. Class begins promptly at 10:00 a.m.
Yoga & Breathing
Sat, Nov 02, 10:00am - 11:00am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for Yoga at the library! Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for... more
Join us for Yoga at the library! 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, Nov 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.
Rebecca - Classic Movie
Sat, Nov 02, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Alfred Hitchcock directed this Oscar-winning Daphne du Maurier story of a marriage haunted by the aura of the husband's dead first wife.... more
Alfred Hitchcock directed this Oscar-winning Daphne du Maurier story of a marriage haunted by the aura of the husband's dead first wife. Runtime: 2 hours;10 mins.
Teen Canvas Painting - Dia de los Muertos Sugar Skull
Sat, Nov 02, 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Celebrate the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos and paint a sugar skull canvas painting. All supplies will be provided. Must Register.
Citizenship Class
Mon, Nov 04, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
This programs aims to help prepare adults to pass the Citizenship test in Chicago at the USCIS.
Music with Miss Caitlin - Sponsored by the LCPL Foundation
Mon, Nov 04, 10:30am - 11:00am
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Join us for music and fun. Miss Caitlin is a local music teacher and performer who loves sharing music with families!
This event is full
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Nov 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.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
Mon, Nov 04, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
The famous archaeologist races against time to retrieve a legendary dial that can change the course of history. Runtime: 142 mins... more
The famous archaeologist races against time to retrieve a legendary dial that can change the course of history. Runtime: 142 mins Rating: PG-13
Love Again - Movie Monday
Mon, Nov 04, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Popcorn and snacks will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.
Teen Enviromental Escape Room - Escape the Blaze
Mon, Nov 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Teens will need to work together to discover practical solutions they can use to combat dangerous conditions. This escape room is... more
Teens will need to work together to discover practical solutions they can use to combat dangerous conditions. This escape room is presented by the Lake County Solid Waste Management District.
LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)
Mon, Nov 04, 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 Advisory Board
Mon, Nov 04, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
St. John - Children's Program 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.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Mon, Nov 04, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B,Meeting Room C,Meeting Room D
English classes are for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Classes are free.
Teen Advisory Board, LEGO®, and Board Game Night
Mon, Nov 04, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Inviting teens, ages 12-18, to TAB, LEGO®, and Board Game Night. Play games and help plan upcoming teen programs for the Highland... more
Inviting teens, ages 12-18, to TAB, LEGO®, and Board Game Night. Play games and help plan upcoming teen programs for the Highland branch. Registration required. Snacks will be provided.
Medicare 101
Mon, Nov 04, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Significant and unprecedented changes are coming to Medicare in 2025; are you ready? Come to a FREE educational presentation for answers to... more
Significant and unprecedented changes are coming to Medicare in 2025; are you ready? Come to a FREE educational presentation for answers to your Medicare questions! Please register.
Travel Film: New York
Tue, Nov 05, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's travel film about New York. Runtime: 60 mins. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Nov 05, 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, Nov 05, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming 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 each child and adult.
This event is full
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, Nov 05, 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.
Caregivers & Coffee Hour
Tue, Nov 05, 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. Storytime attendance is not required.
Storytime: Ages 4-5
Tue, Nov 05, 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, Nov 05, 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, Nov 05, 12:00pm - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children, ages 2-4, are invited to join us in the Children's Programming Room to play with unique toys and socialize.
Environmental BINGO - Lake County Solid Waste Management District
Tue, Nov 05, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Join us for a fun and educational afternoon playing Environmental BINGO! Participants will learn interesting environmental facts while... more
Join us for a fun and educational afternoon playing Environmental BINGO! Participants will learn interesting environmental facts while trying to fill their board. Small prizes will be awarded.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Tue, Nov 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.
This event is full
PreTeen D&D Fantasy Quest - Ages: 8-12
Tue, Nov 05, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us on our journey! This is a family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. We will be using Heroes of Sol'an - 5th... more
Join us on our journey! This is a family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. We will be using Heroes of Sol'an - 5th edition. New players are welcome.
Citizenship Class
Wed, Nov 06, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
This program aims to prepare adults to take the Citizenship test in Chicago-USCIS. Intermediate English level is required.
Off the Hook
Wed, Nov 06, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the... more
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the company every Wednesday! All crafts are welcome.
Create Your Own Greeting Card
Wed, Nov 06, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards.
Kids' Discovery Hour (Grades K-6)
Wed, Nov 06, 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, Nov 06, 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!
Stuffed Animal Sleepover
Wed, Nov 06, 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Celebrate Picture Book Month by bringing along a stuffed animal for an evening filled with stories, songs, and fun! You can even let... more
Celebrate Picture Book Month by bringing along a stuffed animal for an evening filled with stories, songs, and fun! You can even let your stuffed friends stay overnight at the library!
This event is full
Dungeons & Dragons for Adults
Wed, Nov 06, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Why should the kids get to have all the fun? Join us the 1st Wednesday of each month for adult Dungeons & Dragons and experience the... more
Why should the kids get to have all the fun? Join us the 1st Wednesday of each month for adult Dungeons & Dragons and experience the adventure! Seats are limited, so registration is required.
This event is full
Teen Advisory Board
Wed, Nov 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room,Munster Zoom Room
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 Craft: Wood Slice Decorating
Wed, Nov 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Teens will decorate a wood slice using paint and other craft supplies! Ages 12-18. Registration required.
Holiday Expressions: Vegetable Stock
Wed, Nov 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Join us as we use the new Charlie Cart to make vegetable stock. We will focus on cutting basics and sharing seasonal stories. Each... more
Join us as we use the new Charlie Cart to make vegetable stock. We will focus on cutting basics and sharing seasonal stories. Each participant will leave with their base stock. Please register.
Teen & Tween: Fun with Food
Wed, Nov 06, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Tweens and teens (ages 10 to 15) are invited on a Food Adventure featuring Turkey Treats. To ensure there is enough supplies and to... more
Tweens and teens (ages 10 to 15) are invited on a Food Adventure featuring Turkey Treats. To ensure there is enough supplies and to address food allergies, registration is required. 
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Thu, Nov 07, 10:15am - 10:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement. Please... more
Babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement. Please register all children and adults that will attend.
Crafters' Gathering
Thu, Nov 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.
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Nov 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.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Thu, Nov 07, 10:30am - 11:15am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This storytime features stories, fingerplays, music, and a craft that promote pre-reading skills. Please register each child and adult... more
This storytime features stories, fingerplays, music, and a craft that promote pre-reading skills. Please register each child and adult attending. Registration ends 24 hours before the storytime.
This event is full
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Thu, Nov 07, 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.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Nov 07, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Thu, Nov 07, 11:00am - 11:30am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us for this storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that... more
Join us for this 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.
Homeschool Hangout
Thu, Nov 07, 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.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Thu, Nov 07, 11:15am - 11:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement. Please... more
Babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement. Please register all children and adults that will attend.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Thu, Nov 07, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
This is a program for toddlers ages 2 and 3, and a caregiver, where they can participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities.... more
This is a program for toddlers ages 2 and 3, and a caregiver, where they can participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities will help to develop important pre-literacy skills.
This event is full
I Will Find You by Harlan Coben - Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club
Thu, Nov 07, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the discussion of I Will Find You, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for November. Pick up a copy at the... more
Join the discussion of I Will Find You, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for November. Pick up a copy at the Highland Branch.
Teen: Spill the Tea Blends for Characters
Thu, Nov 07, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Teens (ages 12-18), create your own tea blend to match to a character (or theme) of your choice! You decide what to make, but do your... more
Teens (ages 12-18), create your own tea blend to match to a character (or theme) of your choice! You decide what to make, but do your best - other participants will taste-test at the end!
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Nov 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.
Bluey Party: National Picture Book Month Program
Thu, Nov 07, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
To celebrate National Picture Book Month, join us for a True Bluey party! There will be snacks, we will have games like Keepy Uppy, and... more
To celebrate National Picture Book Month, join us for a True Bluey party! There will be snacks, we will have games like Keepy Uppy, and crafts for the whole family. Come have fun with us.
Rescheduled
PreTeen D&D Fantasy Quest - Ages: 8-12
Thu, Nov 07, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
New date Tuesday, November 05, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville
Join us on our journey! This is a family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. We will be using Heroes of Sol'an - 5th... more
Join us on our journey! This is a family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. We will be using Heroes of Sol'an - 5th edition. New players are welcome.
Cancelled
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, Nov 07, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville
English classes are for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Classes are free.
Dungeons and Dragons for Adults
Thu, Nov 07, 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
Virtual: Livestream Author Talk With Stanley Milford, Jr. - Author of The Paranormal Ranger
Thu, Nov 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Zoom
Join a livestream chat with Navajo Ranger, Milford Jr. as he discusses the chilling and insightful memoir of his investigations into... more
Join a livestream chat with Navajo Ranger, Milford Jr. as he discusses the chilling and insightful memoir of his investigations into bizarre cases of the paranormal and the unexplained in Navajoland.
An Evening of Jazz & Wine: Ages 21 and Older - Sponsored by the LCPL Foundation
Thu, Nov 07, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
This event is SOLD OUT! Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket - we look forward to seeing you on the 7th!
Power Paws for Kids
Thu, Nov 07, 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.
Teen Craft: 3D Pie Painting
Thu, Nov 07, 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Teens (12-18), try your hands at painting in 3D. Paint a delicious piece of pie using textured paint on canvas.
Speedcubing - Advanced Rubik's Cube
Fri, Nov 08, 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: Boxed Cards Sets
Sat, Nov 09, 10:00am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Learn to make a set of 4 cards, complete with a box - perfect for gift giving or keeping for yourself! All materials will be... more
Learn to make a set of 4 cards, complete with a box - perfect for gift giving or keeping for yourself! All materials will be provided. Space is limited. Registration is required.
This event is full
Building Blocks to Literacy
Sat, Nov 09, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Kids, ages 6 months through 3 years old, and their caregivers, will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Special blocks for... more
Kids, ages 6 months through 3 years old, and their caregivers, will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Special blocks for older kids will also be available on high tables.
Medicare 101
Sat, Nov 09, 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Important changes are coming to Medicare in 2024. Come to a FREE educational presentation at the Library to find out what they are and... more
Important changes are coming to Medicare in 2024. Come to a FREE educational presentation at the Library to find out what they are and get the answers you need to all your Medicare questions! 
Teen Board Game League
Sat, Nov 09, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Like board games? So do we! Come on in and join us for a fun-filled game session. We provide the games...you provide the energy!
Book Walk - Celebrating National Picture Book Month!
Sat, Nov 09, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children may join us for a Book Walk and win books as prizes!  A variety of picture books, board books, children's fiction and... more
Children may join us for a Book Walk and win books as prizes!  A variety of picture books, board books, children's fiction and non-fiction books will be available to choose from. Please register.  
This event is full
Mah Jongg Instruction at the Library
Sat, Nov 09, 2:00pm - 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.
See all events

Storytime to Go

Miss storytime? Hold your very own storytime session at home! We've put together these guides to help you out.

Exploring Colors

Dinosaur Storytime

Ducks Storytime

Friends Storytime

Lions Storytime

Dragon Storytime

Bilingual Storytime: Spanish/English

Making Change

Self Love

Book Talks

We share some of our favorite kids' books and why we love them!

Want more kids' books and reading strategies?

For babies and toddlers, try our Every Child Ready to Read page or our Getting Ready to Read blog!

For middle grade kids, try these suggestions from YES staff:

Animal Stories

Contemporary Fiction

Testable eBooks

Historical Fiction

eBooks with Activities for Kids

Graphic Novels We Love

Even More Historical Fiction

Middle Grade Summer Reading Suggestions

Pride Month Reads

Pride Month Reads for Preschool - 7th grade

Fantasy and Adventure

Hispanic Heritage Month: Grades K - 3

Hispanic Heritage Month: Middle Grade

Hispanic Heritage Month: YA