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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 2024 board meetings. 

President
Lawrence (Larry) Acheff
Appointed by
Lake County Commissioners
July 1, 2021

Vice President
Sean Conley
Appointed by
Lake County Commissioners
October 18, 2023

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

Charman Shields-Williamson
Appointed by
Merrillville School Board
October 31, 2020

Alice Hunt Lounges
Appointed by
The Nine School Boards of Lake County
July 26, 2022

Michael (Mike) McIntyre
Appointed by
Lake County Council
July 15, 2021

Martha (Marti) Ross
Appointed by
Lake County Council
July 11, 2023

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

August 2024

July 2024

June 2024

May 2024

May 9, 2024 Special Meeting

April 2024

March 2024

February 2024

January 2024

January 2024 Board of Finance

Upcoming Events
Wed, Oct 23, 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.

Wed, Oct 23, 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.

Wed, Oct 23, 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.

Wed, Oct 23, 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.

Wed, Oct 23, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
New venue Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Immerse yourself in adventurous stories while exploring a variety of teas. Northwest Indiana Storytellers will share tales of adventure.... more
Immerse yourself in adventurous stories while exploring a variety of teas. Northwest Indiana Storytellers will share tales of adventure. Light refreshments will be served. Ages 14+. Please register!

Wed, Oct 23, 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!

Wed, Oct 23, 3:30pm - 4:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us for this storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a take home craft that promotes pre-reading skills for kids ages 4-6.

Wed, Oct 23, 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, Oct 23, 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, Oct 23, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Decorate for the fall by painting your own mini pumpkin.

Wed, Oct 23, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children (ages 6-12 years old) will create unique pieces of art using LEGO® and a Provisional Press.
This event is full

Wed, Oct 23, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Come for this free program about Medicare Basics with Cliff Havens from Life Smart Senior Services. Life Smart is not endorsed by the... more
Come for this free program about Medicare Basics with Cliff Havens from Life Smart Senior Services. Life Smart is not endorsed by the federal Medicare program.  

Wed, Oct 23, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Changes are coming to Medicare in 2025! Come to a FREE Educational presentation at the Library to find out what the changes are and get... more
Changes are coming to Medicare in 2025! Come to a FREE Educational presentation at the Library to find out what the changes are and get the answers you need to your other Medicare questions, as well!

Wed, Oct 23, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Significant and unprecedented changes are coming to Medicare in 2025! Do you know what they are? Come to a FREE Educational presentation... more
Significant and unprecedented changes are coming to Medicare in 2025! Do you know what they are? Come to a FREE Educational presentation at the Library to find out!

Thu, Oct 24, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library to work on assignments for school, read and socialize. The library has free WiFi available. All students are... more
Join us at the library to work on assignments for school, read and socialize. The library has free WiFi available. All students are welcome. Students ages 12 and under need adult supervision.

Thu, Oct 24, 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, Oct 24, 10:30am - 11:15am
Highland - Meeting Room A
All Ability: Hangout is a program designed for adults with special needs. Each session we will read picture books and do an activity... more
All Ability: Hangout is a program designed for adults with special needs. Each session we will read picture books and do an activity centered around a theme. Caretakers must stay in the room.

Thu, Oct 24, 10:30am - 11:00am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us as we read a story and enjoy sensory supporting stations of play. Space is limited. Please register every child and adult attending.
This event is full

Thu, Oct 24, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full

Thu, Oct 24, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A,Merrillville Zoom Room
From lawsuits to divorces to guardianships, United States court records can provide exciting details about your ancestors and how they... more
From lawsuits to divorces to guardianships, United States court records can provide exciting details about your ancestors and how they interacted with others in their communities.

Thu, Oct 24, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for an informal and relaxed discussion of Nita Prose's "The Maid". Copies are available at the Munster branch.

Thu, Oct 24, 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.

Thu, Oct 24, 2:30pm - 3:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us as we read a story and enjoy sensory supporting stations of play. Space is limited. Please register every child and adult attending.

Thu, Oct 24, 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children and their caregivers are invited to join us for Halloween fun with books, songs, rhymes, and a craft!
This event is full

Thu, Oct 24, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Youths (ages 10 to 15) are invited to watch episodes from an anime series. We'll also have art supplies along with a craft on hand if... more
Youths (ages 10 to 15) are invited to watch episodes from an anime series. We'll also have art supplies along with a craft on hand if you want to draw, sketch, or get creative.Snacks provided.

Thu, Oct 24, 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

Thu, Oct 24, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Kids in grades K-5 will become mad scientists as they perform fun, Halloween-themed experiments! Registration is required.
This event is full

Thu, Oct 24, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Board Room
Meeting of the Lake County Public Library Board of Trustees

Thu, Oct 24, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Design your own yarn toy!

Thu, Oct 24, 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.

Thu, Oct 24, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Tweens, ages 10-12, are invited to come to the library to hangout with gaming systems, board games, and light snacks!

Fri, Oct 25, 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.

Fri, Oct 25, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart Branch Library - Children's Area
Meet and read to a local LCC K-9 comfort dog and its handler. LCC K-9 comfort dogs show kindness and calm to people throughout the... more
Meet and read to a local LCC K-9 comfort dog and its handler. LCC K-9 comfort dogs show kindness and calm to people throughout the community and beyond, making them excellent listeners.

Sat, Oct 26, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Children are welcome to come and play chess in our meeting room! Chess boards will be provided if you don't have one!

Sat, Oct 26, 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, Oct 26, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join us to hear about the intriguing world of paranormal investigation. Learn how an investigation is conducted from start to finish,... more
Join us to hear about the intriguing world of paranormal investigation. Learn how an investigation is conducted from start to finish, plus a Q & A session with the team to follow.

Sat, Oct 26, 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.

Mon, Oct 28, 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.

Mon, Oct 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Mon, Oct 28, 1:00pm - 1:45pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Join us for a storytime for kids 4-5 years old, featuring stories, music and craft, that help develop early literacy skills. Attendees... more
Join us for a storytime for kids 4-5 years old, featuring stories, music and craft, that help develop early literacy skills. Attendees must register.

Mon, Oct 28, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Join us for a book discussion! A woman estranged from her family is called back home to help after her sister unexpectedly passes away.

Mon, Oct 28, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the Lake Station-New Chicago branch for a Halloween party with snacks, crafts, and green screen photos. All ages are welcome!

Mon, Oct 28, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us as we learn about Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) through activities and more!
This event is full

Mon, Oct 28, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Professional magician, illusionist, mentalist, and comedian, Keelan Wendorf, will give a performance filled with clean comedy and fun!... more
Professional magician, illusionist, mentalist, and comedian, Keelan Wendorf, will give a performance filled with clean comedy and fun! Please register each attendee. Sponsored by the LCPL Foundation.

Mon, Oct 28, 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.

Mon, Oct 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room,Munster Zoom Room
Teens let's spill about books! Each month we'll read and talk about a different book. In October we are reading Through The Woods by... more
Teens let's spill about books! Each month we'll read and talk about a different book. In October we are reading Through The Woods by Emily Carroll. Pick up books @ Munster Branch.

Mon, Oct 28, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
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! 

Mon, Oct 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project.

Mon, Oct 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Teens (ages 12 - 17) are invited to join us for a hour of Halloween activities, food crafts, and snacks. Our Nintendo Switch will be... more
Teens (ages 12 - 17) are invited to join us for a hour of Halloween activities, food crafts, and snacks. Our Nintendo Switch will be available to play with multiple games. Registration required.  

Tue, Oct 29, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library to work on assignments for school, read and socialize. The library has free WiFi available. All students are... more
Join us at the library to work on assignments for school, read and socialize. The library has free WiFi available. All students are welcome. Students ages 12 and under need adult supervision.

Tue, Oct 29, 10:15am - 11:00am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that teach early literacy skills. Please register all attending.
This event is full

Tue, Oct 29, 10:30am - 10:50am
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, Oct 29, 10:30am - 11:30am
Hobart - Large Meeting Room,Programming Room
Homeschoolers, come hang with your peers! Educational and social opportunities will be available.
This event is full

Tue, Oct 29, 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 explore... 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, Oct 29, 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.

Cancelled
Tue, Oct 29, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Dyer-Schererville
Be Heart Smart is a program for individuals who want to learn more about preventing heart disease by making heart-healthy lifestyle... more
Be Heart Smart is a program for individuals who want to learn more about preventing heart disease by making heart-healthy lifestyle changes. Participants are asked to attend all 4 lessons.

Tue, Oct 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.

Tue, Oct 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Looking to enjoy some scary stories? Join us when Grant Fitch presents Creepy Classics: Stories for Halloween.

Tue, Oct 29, 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for some Halloween family fun with spooky science demonstrations, crafts, games and more! Costumes are encouraged!
This event is full

Wed, Oct 30, 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.

Cancelled
Wed, Oct 30, 10:30am - 11:00am
Dyer-Schererville
Children are welcome to wear their costumes to our family Halloween themed story time! Songs, rhymes, finger plays, and books will be read!

Wed, Oct 30, 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.

Wed, Oct 30, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
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.

Wed, Oct 30, 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, Oct 30, 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, Oct 30, 6:00pm - 7:45pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Teens watch the classic Halloween favorite, Beetlejuice! Popcorn and snacks will be provided. Cosplay or wear your Halloween costumes... more
Teens watch the classic Halloween favorite, Beetlejuice! Popcorn and snacks will be provided. Cosplay or wear your Halloween costumes for a prize!

Wed, Oct 30, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Staff Meeting Room
Learn entry level photo editing skills with the free software Paint.NET

Wed, Oct 30, 6:00pm - 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.

Wed, Oct 30, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Significant changes are coming to Medicare in 2025! Do you know what they are? Come to an educational presentation to find out, and get... more
Significant changes are coming to Medicare in 2025! Do you know what they are? Come to an educational presentation to find out, and get the answers you need to your other Medicare questions, as well!

Wed, Oct 30, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us for a game night for the grown ups. We will have board games and the Nintendo Switch.

Thu, Oct 31, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library to work on assignments for school, read and socialize. The library has free WiFi available. All students are... more
Join us at the library to work on assignments for school, read and socialize. The library has free WiFi available. All students are welcome. Students ages 12 and under need adult supervision.

Thu, Oct 31, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the... more
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the company of others.

Thu, Oct 31, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

Thu, Oct 31, 11:15am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "Wrong Place Wrong Time" by Gillian McCallister. Books for this discussion can be... more
The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "Wrong Place Wrong Time" by Gillian McCallister. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the DY-SC branch a month prior to the event.

Thu, Oct 31, 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Costumes encouraged! Join us for some stories and afterward we will go on a parade through the library and trick-or-treat!

Thu, Oct 31, 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.