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Friends of the Lake County Public Library

We are an independent, nonprofit citizens' organization dedicated to assisting in the development of the Lake County Public Library into one of the finest community libraries.

For example, did you know that LCPL's Summer Reading events wouldn't happen if it wasn't for the Friends of the Library? The Friends support LCPL events by covering supply costs and speaker fees so we're able to hold amazing programs and invite presenters to the library - which helps everyone in Lake County learn new things and expand their horizons!

Fellowship with other library Friends

Raise funds in support of the library

Invest in Lake County Public Library's future

Encourage gifts, endowments, and memorials

Nurture knowledge of the library

Develop library services & special community programs

Stimulate public support

Support the Friends

There are many ways you can support the Friends of the Library and Summer Reading!

Visit the book sale room or the sale racks at the branches. We also hold an annual book sale with many more items. All proceeds from these sales go to the Friends.

And of course you can always join the Friends!

Join the Friends!

Why We Need You:

  • LCPL's Summer Reading Challenge is 100% funded by the Friends of the Library! The Friends wisely use membership fees and donations to sponsor fun programs and classes, as well as prizes.

  • The FRIENDS sponsor LCPL's 1000 Books Before Kindergarten reading challenge.

  • FRIENDS contribute to the acquisition of books, video and audio materials, equipment, and other library materials for the entire community.

  • The FRIENDS, by spreading knowledge of the Library, will enlarge its place in Lake County's cultural, civic, scientific and business life, and increase its daily use in the community.

  • FRIENDS encourage gifts of books and special collections to the Lake County Public Library which would be lost to the public were it not for your support.

Being a FRIEND Has Benefits!

Your FRIENDS organization runs an in-house Book Sale Room, open five days a week. Our annual book sales enrich library resources and secure library equipment for purposes of public use and enjoyment. Friends get early access to the annual Fall Book Sale!

Membership dues to the FRIENDS, as well as monetary gifts and book contributions, are deductible for income tax purposes.

Another -- more personal -- benefit of being a FRIEND, is the opportunity to meet other Lake County Public Library patrons who are equally interested in supporting the Library.

The quality of our Library depends on your participation. Your support will ensure continued quality library service.

Be a FRIEND and Join Today!!

If you would like to be a FRIEND, stop by the library to pick up the membership form or download the form and mail it to:

Lake County Public Library
1919 W 81st Ave
Merrillville, Indiana
46410

2023 Friends Officers

President:
  Kathy Mikulich
Vice President:
  Teresa Tressler
Secretary:
   Jennifer LeRose
Treasurer:
   Jennifer Burnison

Download the Membership Form

Upcoming Events
Stitch'n Time
Sat, May 03, 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.
Keep Me In Stitches
Sat, May 03, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Interested in any of the needle arts including knit, crochet, cross-stitch, and more? Join us for an opportunity to chat and create.... more
Interested in any of the needle arts including knit, crochet, cross-stitch, and more? Join us for an opportunity to chat and create. Please bring your own projects.
Yoga & Breathing
Sat, May 03, 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.
This event is full
Reading to the Dogs - Love on a Leash
Sat, May 03, 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.
Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope - May the Fourth be with You on the Third
Sat, May 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Come and see the original Star Wars movie: New Hope. Popcorn and space treats will be available.
School Age Career Fair (Grades K-12)
Sat, May 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room,Large Meeting Room
Join us at the Lake Station-New Chicago Library to learn about the different careers in our community. Children can ask questions to the... more
Join us at the Lake Station-New Chicago Library to learn about the different careers in our community. Children can ask questions to the various vendors from bank tellers to policemen.
Teen Gaming: Mario Kart
Sat, May 03, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Teens, join us to play Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch. Bring your own joy-con controllers if you have them!
Citizenship Class
Mon, May 05, 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.
Nutrition Education Program
Mon, May 05, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Lessons will include making healthy food choices, importance of physical activity, food safety training and recipe exchanges.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, May 05, 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
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, May 05, 12:30pm - 4:00pm
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.
Hidden Figures (2016) - Movie Mondays
Mon, May 05, 2:00pm - 4:15pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Popcorn and snacks will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.
Teen Volunteer Orientation
Mon, May 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Come in to learn about our volunteer opportunities and complete the required paperwork!
Twisters - Feature Film
Mon, May 05, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
A former storm chaser is haunted by a devastating encounter with a tornado is lured back to the open plains to test a groundbreaking new... more
A former storm chaser is haunted by a devastating encounter with a tornado is lured back to the open plains to test a groundbreaking new tracking system. Rating: PG-13; runtime: 122 minutes.
LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)
Mon, May 05, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be... more
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be displayed in the library until the next LEGO® Club meeting.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, May 05, 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.
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, May 05, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
St. John - Children's Program Room
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12.... more
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12. Please register.
Teen Anime Club
Mon, May 05, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program 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.
Teen Craft: Flower bookmarks
Mon, May 05, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Teens, ages 12-18, will make a flower bookmark with flowers, sequins, glitter, and more. All supplies and snacks will be provided. Space... more
Teens, ages 12-18, will make a flower bookmark with flowers, sequins, glitter, and more. All supplies and snacks will be provided. Space is limited. Registration required.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Mon, May 05, 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.
All Ability: Mother's Day Cards - Ages 18 and Older
Mon, May 05, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Make a Mother's Day or Caregiver Appreciation Card. Registration is required. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with... more
Make a Mother's Day or Caregiver Appreciation Card. Registration is required. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, May 06, 10:15am - 10:45am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help... more
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, May 06, 10:30am - 11:00am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books,... more
Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
Travel Film: Australia
Tue, May 06, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Australia. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, May 06, 10:30am - 11:00am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Toddlers and their adult caregivers will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, May 06, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime program for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and craft, that... more
This is a storytime program for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and craft, that promote early literacy skills. Please register all attending.
This event is full
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, May 06, 11:00am - 11:30am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help... more
In this program babies and toddlers, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills.
Caregivers & Coffee Hour
Tue, May 06, 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.
Storytime: Ages 4-5
Tue, May 06, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an... more
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an emphasis on important early pre-reading skills.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, May 06, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
In this program, toddlers and their adult caregivers will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft. Registration is... more
In this program, toddlers and their adult caregivers will enjoy a storytime with books, rhymes, music, and a craft. Registration is required.
This event is full
Toddler Play Session
Tue, May 06, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Children, ages 2-5, are invited to join us in the Children's Programming Room to play with unique toys and socialize.
Be Heart Smart Program Series
Tue, May 06, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Purdue Extension Lake County, in partnership with the Lake County Health Department, will be offering 4 lessons on how you can "Be Heart... more
Purdue Extension Lake County, in partnership with the Lake County Health Department, will be offering 4 lessons on how you can "Be Heart Smart". Registration is required for all sessions.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Tue, May 06, 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.
Teen Tuesday - May Flowers Origami
Tue, May 06, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!
Family Board Game Night
Tue, May 06, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Enjoy family time playing fun games like Monopoly, Candyland, Clue, and Uno!
Citizenship Class
Wed, May 07, 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.
Off the Hook
Wed, May 07, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.
Livestream Author Talk with Dr. David Rosmarin - Author of Thriving with Anxiety
Wed, May 07, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Dr. David Rosmarin about his book Thriving with Anxiety.
Writing Wednesday - Journaling
Wed, May 07, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
This session is a great way to begin integrating journaling into your self-care routine. Join us and start your journey toward a more... more
This session is a great way to begin integrating journaling into your self-care routine. Join us and start your journey toward a more mindful and healthier mindset!
Teen Gaming
Wed, May 07, 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 07, 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 07, 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 07, 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!
Dungeons and Dragons for Adults
Wed, May 07, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Why should the kids get to have all the fun? Join us the 1st Wednesday of each month for adult Dungeons & Dragons and experience the... more
Why should the kids get to have all the fun? Join us the 1st Wednesday of each month for adult Dungeons & Dragons and experience the adventure! Seats are limited, so registration is required.
This event is full
LEGO® Night
Wed, May 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
Children and their families are invited to create and play with LEGO® in an hour of free play and fun. Finished creations will be... more
Children and their families are invited to create and play with LEGO® in an hour of free play and fun. Finished creations will be displayed in the library for the rest of the month!
Teen: Fun with Food
Wed, May 07, 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens & tweens (ages 10-17) will be making street corn and chicken bowls. To ensure there is enough supplies and to address food... more
Teens & tweens (ages 10-17) will be making street corn and chicken bowls. To ensure there is enough supplies and to address food allergies, registration is required.
This event is full
Grown Up Trivia
Wed, May 07, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us for trivia night! 4 rounds of 3 questions. There will be theme nights.
Thursday Threaders
Thu, May 08, 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 08, 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.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Thu, May 08, 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.
Hobby Hour
Thu, May 08, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Don't have the space at home for your hobby? Bring it to our meeting room and have a whole rectangular table to work on (more if less... more
Don't have the space at home for your hobby? Bring it to our meeting room and have a whole rectangular table to work on (more if less people attend). This will be every 2nd Thursday for 2 hours.
Teen Advisory Board
Thu, May 08, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Join our Teen Advisory Board, where you’ll have the opportunity to brainstorm and share your ideas for new programs and events -... more
Join our Teen Advisory Board, where you’ll have the opportunity to brainstorm and share your ideas for new programs and events - building valuable skills for your résumé in the process.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, May 08, 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.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Thu, May 08, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
New venue Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Teens are invited to play in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign with one of our librarians as game master!
This event is full
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, May 08, 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.
Mahjong Open Play: Ages 18 & Over
Fri, May 09, 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
Teen & Tween Speedcubing: Ages 8-17 - Advanced Rubik's Cube
Fri, May 09, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Join us as we speed-solve the Rubik's Cube. Rubik's Cubes will be supplied at the program. Feel free to bring your own!
Storytime at Woodland Park
Sat, May 10, 9:00am - 9:30am
Woodland Park - 1215 E 45th Ave
Young children and their families are invited to join us at Woodland Park for a storytime with books, songs, rhymes, and a guided tour... more
Young children and their families are invited to join us at Woodland Park for a storytime with books, songs, rhymes, and a guided tour through the on-site Story Walk. 
Building Blocks to Literacy
Sat, May 10, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Kids, ages 6 months through 3 years old, and their caregivers, will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Special blocks for... more
Kids, ages 6 months through 3 years old, and their caregivers, will enjoy interacting at various block play stations. Special blocks for older kids will also be available on high tables.
Singin' in the Rain - Classic Film
Sat, May 10, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O'Connor star in one of the greatest musicals ever filmed. Runtime: 103 minutes; Rated: G.
See all events