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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. 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 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. 

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, Mar 27, 11:00am - 11:20am
Lake Station-New Chicago - Lake Station Zoom Room
This is a virtual storytime for children, ages 2-6, and their caregivers.

Mon, Mar 27, 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, Mar 27, 1:00pm - 1:20pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Storytime for kids 4-6 years old, featuring stories, music and take home craft, that help develop early literacy skills. Must register.
This event is full

Mon, Mar 27, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Based on actual oral histories of survivors, the novel follows the stories of Raina and Gerda Olsen, two sisters, both schoolteachers... more
Based on actual oral histories of survivors, the novel follows the stories of Raina and Gerda Olsen, two sisters, both schoolteachers who are affected differently by these events.

Mon, Mar 27, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you. We'll brainstorm and... more
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you. We'll brainstorm and discuss ways to improve teen programs.

Mon, Mar 27, 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. 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. 
This event is full

Canceled
Mon, Mar 27, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville
In this program children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Leave... more
In this program children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Leave your creations to be featured on the next month's flyer.

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Preschool-age children are invited to a 20-minute storytime session designed to foster pre-reading skills. Join us for books, music,... more
Preschool-age children are invited to a 20-minute storytime session designed to foster pre-reading skills. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft!

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Munster - Children's Program Room
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that teach... more
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, Mar 28, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Bring your current painting projects/materials for an opportunity to chat and create!

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and... more
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and... more
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help develop early literacy skills.
This event is full

Tue, Mar 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm
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. Ages 18 and over.

Tue, Mar 28, 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, Mar 28, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime program for babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, filled with rhymes,... more
This is a storytime program for babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.

Tue, Mar 28, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Storytime program featuring rhymes, books, music, and movement, designed to help with early literacy skills, for young children, birth -... more
Storytime program featuring rhymes, books, music, and movement, designed to help with early literacy skills, for young children, birth - 23 months with an adult caregiver. Must register in advance.

Tue, Mar 28, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the Fact or Fiction Book Club in discussing "In the Land of Invisible Women" by Qanta Ahmed. Copies are available at the Highland... more
Join the Fact or Fiction Book Club in discussing "In the Land of Invisible Women" by Qanta Ahmed. Copies are available at the Highland Branch.

Tue, Mar 28, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Dyer-Schererville Zoom Room
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this Zoom discussion can be picked up at the... more
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this Zoom discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.

Tue, Mar 28, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
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 "Knave", a... more
Have you seen people playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and want to try it yourself? We will be playing the fantasy RPG "Knave", a game similar to D&D. Beginners are welcome. For ages 12-18.

Tue, Mar 28, 7:00pm - 8:15pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Come learn about the universe during the Calumet Astronomical Society meeting!

Wed, Mar 29, 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, Mar 29, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake - Cedar Lake Public Tables
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, Mar 29, 5:30pm - 6:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
This is a storytime for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime with books, finger plays, and music. Feel free to... more
This is a storytime for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime with books, finger plays, and music. Feel free to wear pajamas!

Wed, Mar 29, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens ages 12 to 18 will play video games on the Nintendo Switch. We will have games available for the group to play. Please register.

Wed, Mar 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Kids in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade will test their skill & luck with some silly challenges, such as cup stacking and pencil... more
Kids in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade will test their skill & luck with some silly challenges, such as cup stacking and pencil bouncing.

Wed, Mar 29, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Join us for this program filled with games and activities. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs but are... more
Join us for this program filled with games and activities. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs but are open to everyone age 10+. Caretakers must stay in the room.

Wed, Mar 29, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
The meeting will be presented by a licensed arborist and following the presentation there will be a question and answer period regarding... more
The meeting will be presented by a licensed arborist and following the presentation there will be a question and answer period regarding tree care.

Thu, Mar 30, 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, Mar 30, 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, Mar 30, 11:15am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the... more
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "We Are Not Free" by Traci Chee. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.

Thu, Mar 30, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
In Person Only Learn the basic concepts to start your family tree and research. This includes where do I start, what records do I need... more
In Person Only Learn the basic concepts to start your family tree and research. This includes where do I start, what records do I need and how do I put everything together.

Thu, Mar 30, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Register to receive individualized instruction in basic computer skills.

Sat, Apr 01, 10:00am - 10:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
This is a 30 minute storytime program for children ages Birth - 6 and their family. We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!

Sat, Apr 01, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us and bring your current projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) for an opportunity to chat and create! Other... more
Join us and bring your current projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) for an opportunity to chat and create! Other attendees would be happy to instruct on crochet as needed.

Sat, Apr 01, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Tweens, ages 10 to 13, will learn to use the library's green screen. Please register.

Mon, Apr 03, 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, Apr 03, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
International Film Series. Adults only. Mandarin with English subtitles. 122 Minutes. Registration required.

Mon, Apr 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan recruits street-smart Nathan Drake to help him recover a 500-year-old lost fortune amassed by... more
Treasure hunter Victor "Sully" Sullivan recruits street-smart Nathan Drake to help him recover a 500-year-old lost fortune amassed by explorer Ferdinand Magellan. PG-13 1h56min

Mon, Apr 03, 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.

Mon, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens in 6th-12th grades are invited to join the NWI Chess Club. Please register and bring your own board.

Mon, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
St. John - Large Meeting 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.

Mon, Apr 03, 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 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available.... more
Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available. Registration Required.  Programs subject to change.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Are you a fan of anime or manga? If so, come to our monthly Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch. We watch 3-4 episodes of your... more
Are you a fan of anime or manga? If so, come to our monthly Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch. We watch 3-4 episodes of your choosing each month. Ages 12-18.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Celebrate National Poetry Month! Join us as we create blackout poetry using book pages and found poetry bookmarks using magazines. All... more
Celebrate National Poetry Month! Join us as we create blackout poetry using book pages and found poetry bookmarks using magazines. All supplies provided. Ages 12-18.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
For this program teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will... more
For this program teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will be provided. Ages 12 – 18. Please register.

Tue, Apr 04, 10:15am - 11:15am
St. John - Children's Program Room
A 30 minute program for children, ages 4-6 and their caregiver(s). We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Holland. Runtime: 52mins. Please register.

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Children ages 2-3 and their caregivers are invited to a 20-minute storytime session. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft,... more
Children ages 2-3 and their caregivers are invited to a 20-minute storytime session. Join us for books, music, and a take-home craft, all designed to foster pre-reading skills.

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:00am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and... more
In this program babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach early... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, and music that teach early literacy skills. Make sure to grab a take home craft as well! .
This event is full

Tue, Apr 04, 10:30am - 11:30am
Dyer-Schererville Branch - Tutor Table
Book this one-hour session to receive individualized instruction in basic technology skills. Registrant may be contacted before the... more
Book this one-hour session to receive individualized instruction in basic technology skills. Registrant may be contacted before the session to discuss the type of help needed.

Tue, Apr 04, 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.

Tue, Apr 04, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
A storytime program for toddlers and their adult caregivers. Attendees will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft.... more
A storytime program for toddlers and their adult caregivers. Attendees will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft. Registration Required.

Tue, Apr 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
This program teaches seniors (60+) how to make changes to improve health, reduce stress & increase physical fitness. Classes include... more
This program teaches seniors (60+) how to make changes to improve health, reduce stress & increase physical fitness. Classes include trying delicious recipes & learning new exercises to do at home.

Tue, Apr 04, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
All ages of children and teens are welcome to drop by any time during this 2-hour open-house event to make crafts, play games, and use... more
All ages of children and teens are welcome to drop by any time during this 2-hour open-house event to make crafts, play games, and use our green screen. A family movie will be shown as well.

Tue, Apr 04, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for a yoga program. Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good... more
Join us for a yoga program. Each session includes a series of asanas (postures) & sequences of pranayam (breathing exercises) for good health. Please bring your own mat to class.