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Lake County Public Library

Patron Rules of Conduct Policy

These Patron Rules of Conduct were adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Lake County Public Library to promote a safe, attractive, and orderly atmosphere; to ensure every person’s ability to use the library and library materials to the maximum extent possible; and to have reasonable access to library facilities without interference from any other person. The policy cannot anticipate every possible event or situation. Employees are expected to use their best judgement in the spirit of this policy.

The Lake County Public Library supports the rights of all individuals to:

  • Friendly, courteous, and respectful service;

  • Free and equal access to information;

  • Privacy and confidentiality in their use of library services and collections;

  • A clean, comfortable, and pleasant environment; and

  • Use of the library undisturbed without threat of harm, interference, or discrimination.

Use of library facilities and resources implies acceptance of our Patron Rules of Conduct, which are based on these basic principles:

  • Respect other patrons and their right to have a positive experience of the library.

  • Respect library employees whose responsibility it is to help you get the most from your library experience and to maintain a safe and comfortable atmosphere for all patrons.

  • Respect all library facilities, materials, computers, equipment, and resources, and understand and follow rules related to their use.

Noise Policy

The mission of the Lake County Public Library (LCPL) is to provide the highest quality informational, educational, cultural, and recreational resources and services to residents of all ages in the Lake County Public Library District. We welcome all ages and abilities and also protect the right of library users to speak/play at a respectful volume.

Lake County Public Library is committed to providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere for people of all ages and abilities. A wide variety of activities are encouraged in our buildings, including some activities that produce noise. Library users are welcome to converse, play and collaborate at a volume that is respectful to other library users. It is the responsibility of library staff to determine what noise level is best suited to the needs of its users. Please direct any noise complaints to library staff.

Respect of other patrons

To ensure individuals' rights to use the library free of disruption, library patrons shall be engaged in activities associated with the use of a public library while in the building and on library property. Patrons not engaged in reading, studying, using library materials or services, attending programs or classes, or viewing exhibits may be asked to leave the building.

Noise and conversations are expected to be kept at low levels out of consideration for other patrons. Bringing pets or animals into the Library, other than service animals necessary for accommodation, must be authorized by the Executive Director.

Respect of library employees

The safety and security of our employees and patrons are of the utmost importance. Library employees have the right to a safe and respectful workplace environment. Patrons will use polite language and keep the tone of voice moderate.

Conduct that causes or threatens harm to others, interferes with library employees’ performance of duties, or constitutes persistent, unwanted behaviors will not be tolerated.

All patrons are expected to comply with reasonable requests of any library employee.

Respect of facilities, materials, computers, equipment, and resources

The Library is supported by taxpayers who reside in the Lake County Public Library district. These patrons expect our facilities to be clean, comfortable, and safe. It is expected that all library users will treat library materials, furniture, and equipment with care, and use library facilities, materials, and furnishings as intended.

Single-serving, dry snacks and covered beverages are permitted in most areas.

Soliciting is not permitted except in support of the library and sanctioned library activities. 

Prohibited items or behaviors include, but are not limited to:

  • Bringing bicycles, shopping carts, or other large wheeled conveyances inside library buildings is prohibited. Wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices are only permitted if being used as transportation for, or as a mobility device by, an adult or child.

  • Bringing containers, packages, briefcases, parcels, or bundles into the library which singly or collectively exceed 24” x 14” x 12” is prohibited. Items deemed unsanitary by the library branch manager will not be permitted inside library buildings.

  • Interfering with access, egress or use of Library facilities or resources by placement of objects or by use of wheeled devices including, but not limited to, shopping carts, bicycles, skateboards, suitcases, roller blades or moving equipment (exceptions include wheelchairs, walkers, strollers with child).

  • Monopolizing library space, furniture, electrical outlets, or equipment to the exclusion of other patrons or staff is prohibited.

  • A pattern of sleeping or lying down in or on Library premises is prohibited.

Enforcement of the Patron Rules of Conduct Policy

  • Library employees may at any time request that patrons show library cards and other documents (driver's license, school ID, e.g.) for purposes of identification.

  • The library reserves the right to inspect all bags, purses, briefcases, or backpacks for concealed library materials.

  • It is expected that patrons will follow federal, state, and local laws and policies. Library employees are authorized to call the police for assistance in the case of violent behavior or illegal activities; or to ensure enforcement of this policy.

  • Library employees have the authority to decide what is considered appropriate behavior and to enforce the Patron Rules of Conduct. Library staff will inform the patron of the relevant conduct policy and warn the patron that continued violation will result in a loss of privileges. Staff may ask the patron to leave the Library property for one day if they are uncooperative or argumentative. The Library reserves the right at all times to immediately eject a patron who is dangerous or in any way threatening employees or other patrons. In addition, the

  • Library may pursue remedies under Federal, State, or local law where applicable.

  • Unattended minors who do not abide by library rules and policies, or who exhibit unacceptable behavior, will be asked to leave, and/or call their parents for a ride home. If unable to reach their parents, or if a ride is unavailable, the children may be considered abandoned and the local police department will be called.

Suspension of Library Privileges

  • The Lake County Library Board of Trustees authorizes library staff and law enforcement officers to enforce the library’s published Patron Code of Conduct Policy up to and including long-term suspension of library privileges, permanent banning from the library or prosecution.

  • Depending on the nature and frequency of the behavior, consequences may include suspension of library privileges or permanent banning. The Library Director has the authority to ban from the library premises any individual whose behavior is a sufficient threat to the ability of the library to operate in a safe manner or individuals who repeatedly violate the Patron Code of Conduct. If the individual facing exclusion is under the age of eighteen (18), then banning will not occur until the minor’s parent or guardian is notified in writing.

  • Banning or exclusion from library premises denies the patron access to the building, grounds and services of any library within the Lake County Public Library system as well as from all telephone reference. The individual will receive the suspension notice in writing and a copy will be kept at all library locations. The patron may still access from an offsite computer the library’s webpage and any databases available through that site.

  • If any individual named in a suspension notice enters a Lake County Public Library before the return date listed on the suspension notice, it will be considered criminal trespass and the individual will be asked to leave. If the individual does not leave when asked, staff will contact local law enforcement.

  • Individuals who have had their library privileges suspended may appeal the suspension. The request must be in writing and will be evaluated by the Library Board.

  • It is the sole responsibility of the individual banned to apply for reinstatement of library privileges. These are not automatically available at the end of the period of exclusion. A Request for Resolution must be completed to be eligible for reinstatement.

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Upcoming Events
Mon, Jul 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.
This event is full

Mon, Jul 28, 1:00pm - 1:40pm
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.
This event is full

Mon, Jul 28, 1:30pm - 3:15pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Bring the whole family! The room will be lighter, the volume will be lower, and audience members can move around, talk, and sing. Snacks... more
Bring the whole family! The room will be lighter, the volume will be lower, and audience members can move around, talk, and sing. Snacks are welcome! Rated PG; 93 minute runtime.

Cancelled
Mon, Jul 28, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
Join us for Family Game Day! Play one of our many board games or our Nintendo Switch. All games are provided. Bring your friends and... more
Join us for Family Game Day! Play one of our many board games or our Nintendo Switch. All games are provided. Bring your friends and family to join in on the fun! All ages are welcome.

Mon, Jul 28, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Ready - set - play! Compete against other players to see who is the best brawler! If you have Nintendo Switch Joycons, bring them! For... more
Ready - set - play! Compete against other players to see who is the best brawler! If you have Nintendo Switch Joycons, bring them! For ages 12-18.

Mon, Jul 28, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
In 1811, the Richmond Theater goes up in flames in the middle of a performance, four people make a series of split-second decisions... more
In 1811, the Richmond Theater goes up in flames in the middle of a performance, four people make a series of split-second decisions that will affect their own lives but also countless others.

Mon, Jul 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.
This event is full

Mon, Jul 28, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Join us for this monthly club as we solve murder mysteries, escape rooms, ponder puzzles, play games, and otherwise ask "Whodunit?".... more
Join us for this monthly club as we solve murder mysteries, escape rooms, ponder puzzles, play games, and otherwise ask "Whodunit?". Practice your skills with a historical escape room experience.

Mon, Jul 28, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Steel yourself for the rest of the week with Monday Night Adult D&D! We'll be following 5e rules and will be running the Out of the... more
Steel yourself for the rest of the week with Monday Night Adult D&D! We'll be following 5e rules and will be running the Out of the Abyss campaign. Beginners and experienced players welcome!
This event is full

Tue, Jul 29, 10:00am - 11:30am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Kids ages 6 months through 3 years old, and their caregivers, will enjoy interacting at various block play stations.

Tue, Jul 29, 10:15am - 11:00am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Children will develop pre-reading skills as they enjoy stories, music, and a craft.

Tue, Jul 29, 10:30am - 11:15am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children ages 2-3, with caregivers, will interact at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy, social, and... more
Children ages 2-3, with caregivers, will interact at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy, social, and other skills. Play also nurtures creativity. Please register.
This event is full

Tue, Jul 29, 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, Jul 29, 11:00am - 12:00pm
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, Jul 29, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Come play some board games with us! We will have a Nintendo Wii setup as well. All ability programs are geared towards adults with... more
Come play some board games with us! We will have a Nintendo Wii setup as well. All ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs. Registration is required.

Tue, Jul 29, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join us to make a tie-dye shirt in your color of choice! Please bring your own shirt to tie-dye.

Tue, Jul 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, Jul 29, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Come in to the library and enjoy some crafting!

Wed, Jul 30, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.

Wed, Jul 30, 1:30pm - 2:15pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Join Science Heroes on their mission to turn science into an adventure!

Wed, Jul 30, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Branch - Patio Area
Ages 6 and older can bring a plain white, pre-washed, cotton article of clothing , and maybe an adult to help. Come in during the 2 hour... more
Ages 6 and older can bring a plain white, pre-washed, cotton article of clothing , and maybe an adult to help. Come in during the 2 hour window.

Wed, Jul 30, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Children who participated in our Summer Art Series are invited to bring their families to view their masterpieces on display! Light... more
Children who participated in our Summer Art Series are invited to bring their families to view their masterpieces on display! Light refreshments provided!
Please contact the library to register for this event.

Cancelled
Wed, Jul 30, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
Join us at the library to make a craft out of Perler beads. You can create your own design or examples will be provided. Supplies are... more
Join us at the library to make a craft out of Perler beads. You can create your own design or examples will be provided. Supplies are limited. Registration is required. Ages 12-18.

Wed, Jul 30, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Children are invited to freely create art at stations such as puffy paint, mini canvas painting, and more! Supplies are limited, first... more
Children are invited to freely create art at stations such as puffy paint, mini canvas painting, and more! Supplies are limited, first come first served!
This event is full

Wed, Jul 30, 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.

Wed, Jul 30, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake Branch - 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, Jul 30, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Staff Meeting Room
Learn entry level photo editing skills with the free software Paint.NET.
This event is full

Wed, Jul 30, 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Teens, are you a fan of anime or manga? Need an excuse to watch and talk about it more often? Then register for Anime Hangout where... more
Teens, are you a fan of anime or manga? Need an excuse to watch and talk about it more often? Then register for Anime Hangout where we'll view the anime you want. Refreshments and snacks provided.

Wed, Jul 30, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
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.

Wed, Jul 30, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Children (ages 12 to 17) are invited to watch episodes from an anime series. We'll also have art and craft supplies if you want to... more
Children (ages 12 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.  

Thu, Jul 31, 10:00am - 5:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
All ages are welcome to decorate a paper tile that will be used in a community art project. An assortment of art supplies will be... more
All ages are welcome to decorate a paper tile that will be used in a community art project. An assortment of art supplies will be available. Drop in any time between 10-5. No registration necessary.

Thu, Jul 31, 10:30am - 11:30am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children ages 4-5, with caregivers, will interact at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy, social, and... more
Children ages 4-5, with caregivers, will interact at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy, social, and other skills. Play also nurtures creativity. Please register.
This event is full

Thu, Jul 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, Jul 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, Jul 31, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Branch - Patio Area
Ages 6 and older can bring a plain white, pre-washed, cotton article of clothing , and maybe an adult to help. Come in during the 2 hour... more
Ages 6 and older can bring a plain white, pre-washed, cotton article of clothing , and maybe an adult to help. Come in during the 2 hour window.

Thu, Jul 31, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville Branch Library - East Parking Lot
Explore a real fire truck and beat the heat with the spray from the Schererville Fire Department's tallest and biggest hose. Bring a... more
Explore a real fire truck and beat the heat with the spray from the Schererville Fire Department's tallest and biggest hose. Bring a towel and wear your swimsuit!

Thu, Jul 31, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Pria Anand about The Mind Electric.

Thu, Jul 31, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Learn driving techniques, proven safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road. Class fee is $20 for AARP members & $25 for... more
Learn driving techniques, proven safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road. Class fee is $20 for AARP members & $25 for non-members.

Cancelled
Thu, Jul 31, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
If you're up for some Minecraft fun join us for some building, exploring, and maybe even a little competition. Bring your friends, bring... more
If you're up for some Minecraft fun join us for some building, exploring, and maybe even a little competition. Bring your friends, bring your creativity, and let's make some awesome memories!

Cancelled
Thu, Jul 31, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
Every last Thursday, meet for an hour to read, drink tea or coffee, and have casual conversations about reading.

Thu, Jul 31, 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.

Fri, Aug 01, 9:00am - 5:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Drop off your favorite teddy bear or stuffy and let them spend the weekend in the library!

Fri, Aug 01, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us for a different family film each Friday. Snacks will be provided too!

Sat, Aug 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.

Sat, Aug 02, 10:00am - 11:00am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good health. Please bring your own... more
Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good health. Please bring your own mat to class.

Sat, Aug 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.

Sat, Aug 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Bring your craft projects from home and join us to chat with fellow crafters while working on your project without the interruptions of... more
Bring your craft projects from home and join us to chat with fellow crafters while working on your project without the interruptions of home. All are welcome.

Mon, Aug 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.

Mon, Aug 04, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Here is an original film about multiple families and a special place they inhabit. The story travels through generations, capturing the... more
Here is an original film about multiple families and a special place they inhabit. The story travels through generations, capturing the most relatable of human experiences.

Mon, Aug 04, 2:00pm - 3:45pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Popcorn and snacks will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.

Mon, Aug 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville Branch - 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.

Mon, Aug 04, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Steel yourself for the rest of the week with Monday Night Adult D&D! We'll be following 5e rules and will be running the Out of the... more
Steel yourself for the rest of the week with Monday Night Adult D&D! We'll be following 5e rules and will be running the Out of the Abyss campaign. Beginners and experienced players welcome!
Registration opens Monday, July 28 2025 at 6:00pm

Tue, Aug 05, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Athens. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.

Tue, Aug 05, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Jay Falk about The Bird Book.

Tue, Aug 05, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Age-appropriate, research-based safety lessons. Questions? Call Fair Haven's Jennifer Potter at (219) 961-4357. All adults attending... more
Age-appropriate, research-based safety lessons. Questions? Call Fair Haven's Jennifer Potter at (219) 961-4357. All adults attending must be accompanied by a child. All children must be with an adult.

Tue, Aug 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.

Cancelled
Tue, Aug 05, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!

Rescheduled
Tue, Aug 05, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
New date Tuesday, August 19, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!

Tue, Aug 05, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join Coates Inc. for a free interactive series of college & career workshops designed to help high school students prepare for life... more
Join Coates Inc. for a free interactive series of college & career workshops designed to help high school students prepare for life after graduation. High school-aged teens (14-18) are welcome.