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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

2025 Friends Officers

President:
  Kathy Mikulich
Vice President:
  Teresa Tressler
Secretary:
   Gayle Krekovich
Treasurer:
   Jennifer Burnison

Download the Membership Form

Upcoming Events
Paint'n Time
Tue, Aug 12, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Join us and bring your current painting projects/materials for an opportunity to chat and create!
Friends of LCPL Meeting
Tue, Aug 12, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Merrillville
The Friends of LCPL will host their bi-monthly meeting.
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone - Circle of Readers Book Discussion
Tue, Aug 12, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Circle of Readers will be discussing Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson.
Teen Minecraft Meetup
Tue, Aug 12, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Come play Minecraft, uninterrupted, on our Raspberry Pi computers! For ages 8-18.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Tue, Aug 12, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Come and play in a game with one of our librarians as GM.
All Ability: Stained Glass Votive Holders - Ages 18 & Older
Tue, Aug 12, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Create faux stained glass designs on votive holders to create a nice fall ambiance when lit. Registration required. All Ability programs... more
Create faux stained glass designs on votive holders to create a nice fall ambiance when lit. Registration required. All Ability programs are geared to adults with special needs.
This event is full
Teen Alphabet Club - GSA/LGBTQ+ Teens Support and Discussion Group
Tue, Aug 12, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
We are proud to be hosting a support, education, & social space for LGBTQ+ teens & their allies. Teens (12-18) are welcome.
Off the Hook
Wed, Aug 13, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.
Financial Wellness: Identity Theft - With First Financial Bank
Wed, Aug 13, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Misty De la Cruz of First Financial Bank will teach how to spot the signs of identity theft, how to protect yourself, and what to do if... more
Misty De la Cruz of First Financial Bank will teach how to spot the signs of identity theft, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you think your identity has been compromised.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Wed, Aug 13, 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.
Crochet @ Your Library
Wed, Aug 13, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake Library - 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! 
The Widower's Tale by Julia Glass
Wed, Aug 13, 5:30pm - 6:45pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Join the Page Turners Book Discussion as we discuss The Widower's Tale by Julia Glass. Books are available at the circulation... more
Join the Page Turners Book Discussion as we discuss The Widower's Tale by Julia Glass. Books are available at the circulation desk. Please register.
All Ability: Make Your Own Puzzle - Ages 16 and Over
Wed, Aug 13, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
This month we will be coloring our own puzzles! Space is limited. Registration is required for all attendees.
Teen Cartoon School
Wed, Aug 13, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Like to draw? Like comics and cartoons? Then this is the program for you! Join us on the second Wednesday of every month to learn new... more
Like to draw? Like comics and cartoons? Then this is the program for you! Join us on the second Wednesday of every month to learn new drawing techniques and make friends with your fellow cartoonists!
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Aug 14, 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, Aug 14, 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
Cancelled
Hobby Hour
Thu, Aug 14, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
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.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Aug 14, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
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 - Everyday Technology Help Appointment
Thu, Aug 14, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #3
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Thu, Aug 14, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
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
Teen College & Career Summer Workshops with Coates Inc.
Thu, Aug 14, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
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 (ages 14-18) are welcome.
Adult Dungeons and Dragons
Thu, Aug 14, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Join us for our Thursday evening group of Adult Dungeons and Dragons! In this group, we'll work our way through the Curse of Strahd module.
This event is full
Morning Mix: Ages 18 and Over - Jigsaw Puzzles, Coloring, Crosswords, & Word Searches
Fri, Aug 15, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Stop in anytime during these sessions to work on a provided puzzle, crossword, word search or coloring sheet. All supplies provides.... more
Stop in anytime during these sessions to work on a provided puzzle, crossword, word search or coloring sheet. All supplies provides. Coffee, tea, and water will be available.
Cancelled
Mah Jongg Meet Up - Open Play: Ages 18+
Fri, Aug 15, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
For seasoned players and beginners. Please bring your own set as on-site supplies are limited. Open play every third Friday.
Craft Saturday: Hanging Yarn Art
Sat, Aug 16, 10:00am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Back by popular demand! Create unique and colorful decor by tying simple knots with yarn. All materials will be supplied. Space is... more
Back by popular demand! Create unique and colorful decor by tying simple knots with yarn. All materials will be supplied. Space is limited. All attendees must be 12 or older. Register online.
Yoga & Breathing
Sat, Aug 16, 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.
Family Game Day
Sat, Aug 16, 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Please join us for some board and card games. We'll also have a Nintendo Switch set up. Feel free to bring your own games too!
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Aug 18, 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.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Aug 18, 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.
Teen Advisory Board & Game Night
Mon, Aug 18, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you, all while earning... more
The Library is YOUR library. Help your local library create programs and initiatives that help and interest you, all while earning volunteer hours!
All Ability: Tissue Paper Kites
Mon, Aug 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Come make a tissue paper kite. All ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs. Registration is required.
Cancelled
Teen Craft: Canvas Tote Bag
Mon, Aug 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
Join us at the library to design your own canvas tote bag. You can create your own design or examples will be provided. Supplies are... more
Join us at the library to design your own canvas tote bag. You can create your own design or examples will be provided. Supplies are limited. Registration is required. Ages 12-18.
All Ability: Watercolor Painting - Ages 18 & Over
Mon, Aug 18, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
Make a watercolor painting. Registration is required. All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs.
All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay - Hobart Book Chat
Tue, Aug 19, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room,Hobart Zoom Room
Our August 2025 book chat title is "All That Is Mine I Carry With Me" by William Landay. Pick up a copy at the Hobart Branch to chat!... more
Our August 2025 book chat title is "All That Is Mine I Carry With Me" by William Landay. Pick up a copy at the Hobart Branch to chat! Contact hobart@lcplin.org or (219) 942-2243 for more details.
Cancelled
Tuesday Time Out
Tue, Aug 19, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago
Take a time out every third Tuesday for some calming music, word puzzles, coloring sheets, & other relaxing activities.
Teen Gamefest
Tue, Aug 19, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Join us for video and board games!
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology - Everyday Technology Help Appointment
Tue, Aug 19, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #3
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full
Teen Tuesday - Fidget Star
Tue, Aug 19, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Come in to the Library and enjoy some crafting!
Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash - Between the Lines Book Discussion
Wed, Aug 20, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville
The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "Beyond That, the Sea" by Laura Spence-Ash. Books for this discussion can be... more
The Between the Lines book discussion group will read "Beyond That, the Sea" by Laura Spence-Ash. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.
Off the Hook
Wed, Aug 20, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join in the conversation! Please register.
Monthly Resume Workshop
Wed, Aug 20, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Create your perfect resume with helpful resources and tips for those just getting started.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Wed, Aug 20, 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.
Teen Chef Academy
Wed, Aug 20, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library for a cooking program that teaches kitchen skills, nutrition, and sustainability through interactive lessons and... more
Join us at the library for a cooking program that teaches kitchen skills, nutrition, and sustainability through interactive lessons and tasty food while promoting healthy eating and food science.
Crochet @ Your Library
Wed, Aug 20, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake Library - 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! 
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Wed, Aug 20, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
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.
Livestream Author Talk with Casey McQuiston - Bestselling Author of The Pairing
Wed, Aug 20, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Casey McQuiston about The Pairing.
Writing Wednesday - Flash Fiction
Wed, Aug 20, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Join us at the library for a fast-paced, fun, and creative workshop focused on the art of flash fiction!
Teen Rainbow Club
Wed, Aug 20, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Teen Rainbow Club is a monthly social space for LGBTQIA+ teens & allies. Come for informal discussion, movies, snacks, and crafts.... more
Teen Rainbow Club is a monthly social space for LGBTQIA+ teens & allies. Come for informal discussion, movies, snacks, and crafts. Please register
Teen Anime Club
Wed, Aug 20, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens (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,... more
Teens (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.
Being Henry by Henry Winkler
Wed, Aug 20, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
Join us for a discussion of "Being Henry" by Henry Winkler. Copies are available at the front desk.
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Aug 21, 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.
North by Northwest - Classic Film
Thu, Aug 21, 10:30am - 1:00pm
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's classic film, North by Northwest. Runtime: 2 hrs & 16 mins. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.
Crafters Gathering
Thu, Aug 21, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Bring any low-mess craft (e.g., knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, coloring, origami, jewelry-making) and enjoy meeting and sharing ideas... more
Bring any low-mess craft (e.g., knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, coloring, origami, jewelry-making) and enjoy meeting and sharing ideas with other crafters during this program.  
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Aug 21, 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.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology - Everyday Technology Help Appointment
Thu, Aug 21, 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 College & Career Summer Workshops with Coates Inc.
Thu, Aug 21, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room A
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 (ages 14-18) are welcome.
See all events