Lake County Public Library Board of Trustees

Board meetings are held monthly at 4:30 PM on the fourth Thursday in the Administrative Building located at 1919 W 81st Ave. Merrillville, IN. In the event of a holiday or scheduling conflict, adjusted meeting dates will be reflected in the annual notice as well as on the library events calendar. See the full schedule of 2025 board meetings.

President
Sean Conley
Appointed by
Lake County Commissioners
October 18, 2023
Term expires
June 30, 2026

Vice President
Martha (Marti) Ross
Appointed by
Lake County Council
July 11, 2023
Term expires
July 11, 2027

Secretary
Molly Dunscombe
Appointed by
Merrillville School Board
January 15, 2022
Term expires
January 15, 2026

Lawrence (Larry) Acheff
Appointed by
Lake County Commissioners
July 1, 2021
Term expires
June 30, 2025

Charman Shields-Williamson
Appointed by
Merrillville School Board
October 31, 2024
Term expires
October 30, 2028

Alice Hunt-Lounges
Appointed by
The Nine School Boards of Lake County
July 26, 2022
Term expires
July 25, 2026

Michael (Mike) McIntyre
Appointed by
Lake County Council
July 15, 2021
Term expires
July 25, 2025

About the Board of Trustees

The Lake County Public Library is governed by the Board of Trustees. The seven member board is responsible for library governance and policy. Trustees are appointed by the Lake County Commissioners, the Lake County Council, the Merrillville School Board and the Nine School Boards of Lake County.

The Board of Trustees meets monthly at 4:30pm on the fourth Thursday in the Administrative Building located at 1919 W 81st Ave. Merrillville, IN. In the event of a holiday or scheduling conflict, adjusted meeting dates will be reflected in the annual notice as well as on the library events calendar.

Email the Board of Trustees

Meeting Minutes

2025:

March 2025

February 2025

January 2025

January 2025 Board of Finance

2024:

May 9, 2024 Special Meeting

January 2024 Board of Finance

Upcoming Events

Tech Class: Computer Basics

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.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

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.

Thursday Threaders

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.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

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.

A Fever in the Heartland by Timothy Egan - Munster Book Discussion

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.

Storytime: Ages 4-6

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

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

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.

Board Meeting

Thu, May 22, 4:30pm - 6:00pm

Merrillville - Board Room

Meeting of the Lake County Public Library Board of Trustees

English as a Second Language (ESL)

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.

Fencing Showcase with the NWI Fencing Club: Ages 6-18

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!

Adult Craft Night: Tie Dye Aprons

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

Mahjong Open Play: Ages 18 & Over

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

Kids Chess Open Play: Ages 6-18

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.

Power Paws for Kids

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.

Bingo at the Library!

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

Homeschool Hangout (Grades K-12)

Tue, May 27, 10:30am - 11:30am

Hobart - Large Meeting Room

Homeschoolers, come hang with your peers! Educational and social opportunities will be available.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months

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

Storytime: Ages 2-3

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

Paint'n Time

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!

Mother Goose On The Loose: Ages Birth-23 Months

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.

Storytime: Ages 4-5

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.

All Ability: Gaming

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.

New Parent & Caregiver Meet Up

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.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months

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.

The Boys by Ron Howard - Fact or Fiction Book Club

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.

Teen: Adventurers Wanted!

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.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

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.

This event is full

Teen StarFinder

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!

Calumet Astronomical Society

Tue, May 27, 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Munster - Large Meeting Room

Join the Calumet Astronomical Society to learn about various cosmic topics!

Cancelled

Be Heart Smart Program

Wed, May 28, 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.

Citizenship Class

Wed, May 28, 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.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth – 23 Months

Wed, May 28, 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.

This event is full

Caregivers & Coffee Hour

Wed, May 28, 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, May 28, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

St. John - Large Meeting Room

Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.

Teen Gaming

Wed, May 28, 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, May 28, 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.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

Wed, May 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Merrillville Branch Library - 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.

Crochet @ Your Library

Wed, May 28, 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!

Teen Game Night

Wed, May 28, 5:00pm - 6:30pm

Hobart - Large Meeting Room

Teens are welcome to join us for an evening of gaming, board games, and puzzles! Test your skills and get ready for a night of great... more

Teens are welcome to join us for an evening of gaming, board games, and puzzles! Test your skills and get ready for a night of great vibes and unforgettable moments!

Pajama Storytime

Wed, May 28, 5:30pm - 6:00pm

Hobart - Children's Program Room

Join us for a cozy storytime filled with songs, books, fun activities, and so much more. Feel free to wear your pajamas!

Learn to Code with GameMaker - Create a Tutorial Game

Wed, May 28, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Merrillville - Staff Meeting Room

Walk through the process of creating your own simple game using GameMaker's 15 minute tutorial.

Teen Summer Volunteer Orientation

Wed, May 28, 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.

Art Club (Grades K-5)

Wed, May 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room

A new version of Art Club! Children in grades K-5 will create unique works of art while we learn about different art styles, mediums,... more

A new version of Art Club! Children in grades K-5 will create unique works of art while we learn about different art styles, mediums, and famous artists.

This event is full

Cancelled

Genealogy and DNA 101

Wed, May 28, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Munster

Learn more about genealogy with genealogist Herb Smith! We'll discuss the latest techniques to trace your family history, advances in... more

Learn more about genealogy with genealogist Herb Smith! We'll discuss the latest techniques to trace your family history, advances in genealogical technology, and more.

Teen Game Night

Wed, May 28, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room

A selection of board games (and snacks!) will be provided for you and fellow teens to play. A Nintendo Switch & Xbox will be available... more

A selection of board games (and snacks!) will be provided for you and fellow teens to play. A Nintendo Switch & Xbox will be available with games. Registration is required. For ages 10 - 18.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

Thu, May 29, 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.

Thursday Threaders

Thu, May 29, 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.

Teen Volunteer Orientation

Thu, May 29, 11:00am - 12:00pm

Munster - Large Meeting Room

Come in to learn about our volunteer opportunities and complete the required paperwork!

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

Thu, May 29, 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.

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig - Between the Lines Book Discussion

Thu, May 29, 11:15am - 12:30pm

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

The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig. Books for this discussion can be picked up at... more

The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.

Genealogy Class: Making the Most of County Histories

Thu, May 29, 1:30pm - 3:00pm

Merrillville - Meeting Room A,Merrillville Zoom Room

Our speaker is Monique Howell from the Indiana State Library. The county history collection contains historical and modern publications... more

Our speaker is Monique Howell from the Indiana State Library. The county history collection contains historical and modern publications which detail county, city and township development.

One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology

Thu, May 29, 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.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Thu, May 29, 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.

Senior Planet Lecture Series: Managing Your Privacy Online - Hosted by IU's Center for Urban and Regional Excellence

Fri, May 30, 12:00pm - 1:30pm

Merrillville - Meeting Room A

In this introductory lecture, we’ll review how ads target us online, how to limit tracking, where to find browser settings and... more

In this introductory lecture, we’ll review how ads target us online, how to limit tracking, where to find browser settings and extensions to better control how our information is shared, and more!

Creative Arts Summit

Sat, May 31, 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Merrillville Branch Library - Main Level

The 4th annual Creative Arts Summit is closing out springtime this year with a showcase of local artists and creators! Come see what our... more

The 4th annual Creative Arts Summit is closing out springtime this year with a showcase of local artists and creators! Come see what our community has to offer!!

See all events