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Here we lay out the rules of the library and our policies

Rules of the Library

These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that all patrons are able to enjoy library materials and spaces in comfor and safety. Policies are created with the approval of the Board of Trustees. If you have questions about any of our policies, please contact the Board!

Policies & Procedures

• 3D Printing Policy

• Background Check Policy

• Borrowing Procedure

• Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Policy

• Child Safety Policy

• Computer Guidelines

• Computer Use Policy & Internet Disclaimer

• Displays & Exhibits

• e-Receipts

• Ethics Policy

• Face Masks in Library Buildings

• Fines & Fees - Overdue Fines

• Fines & Fees - Board Policy

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Group Visits

• Investment Policy

• Noise Policy

• Non-Discriminatory Service Policy

• Principles of Access / Circulation Policy

• Protection of Privacy of Library Users

• Public Meeting Room Policy

• Refund Procedures

• Renewals and Loan Period Policy

• Rules of Conduct

• Social Media

• Statewide Borrowing

• Wireless Guidelines

Upcoming Events
Citizenship Class
Mon, Jan 30, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Classes to help prepare adults for the United States Immigration examination, to become naturalized citizens.
Storytime: Ages 4-5
Mon, Jan 30, 1:00pm - 1:30pm
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.
The Collector's Daughter by Gill Paul
Mon, Jan 30, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Discuss this novel about Lady Evelyn Herbert, the woman who took the very first step into the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.
Teen Advisory Board & Game Night
Mon, Jan 30, 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.
Teen Anime Club
Mon, Jan 30, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Calling all teen Anime and Manga fans! Come out and join other Anime fans as we watch a couple Anime episodes, do a fun activity and... more
Calling all teen Anime and Manga fans! Come out and join other Anime fans as we watch a couple Anime episodes, do a fun activity and have snacks.
English as a Second Language (ESL) - ESL
Mon, Jan 30, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
English Classes are for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Classes are free.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Tue, Jan 31, 10:15am - 10:45am
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!
Building Blocks to Literacy
Tue, Jan 31, 10:30am - 11:30am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Kids ages 6 months and up will enjoy interacting with blocks at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy,... more
Kids ages 6 months and up will enjoy interacting with blocks at various play stations. Playing helps children learn language, literacy, social, and other skills.
This event is full
Coloring for Adults
Tue, Jan 31, 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.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, Jan 31, 11:30am - 11:50am
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Rhymes, books, music, and movement, designed to help with early literacy skills, for young children, birth - 23 months with an adult... more
Rhymes, books, music, and movement, designed to help with early literacy skills, for young children, birth - 23 months with an adult caregiver. Must register ahead of time.
Citizenship Class
Wed, Feb 01, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Classes to help prepare adults for the United States Immigration examination, to become legal Citizens.
Create Your Own Greeting Card
Wed, Feb 01, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15 to... more
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15 to attend and includes all necessary materials.
Off the Hook
Wed, Feb 01, 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.
LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)
Wed, Feb 01, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Hobart - 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.
Crochet @ Your Library
Wed, Feb 01, 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!
Create Your Own Greeting Card
Wed, Feb 01, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15 to... more
The Basement Bunch with Debbie Rodriguez will be hosting a series of classes on how to make greeting cards. This class costs $15 to attend and includes all necessary materials.
Teen Black History Month STEM Night
Wed, Feb 01, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
We'll have a potato chip tasting & other snacks, do an experiment & talk about Black inventors and scientists who have left an indelible... more
We'll have a potato chip tasting & other snacks, do an experiment & talk about Black inventors and scientists who have left an indelible mark on today's STEM. Questions? Call Melissa @219-836-8450.
Family Storytime: Dinosaurs!
Wed, Feb 01, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
This is a dinosaur themed storytime for children, ages 2-6, and their caregivers.
Virtual: Whale Watching in Glacier Bay!
Wed, Feb 01, 6:00pm - 6:45pm
Merrillville - Lake County Public Library Zoom Room
Join us as the friendly rangers at Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska take us on a trip to identify the whales just outside their... more
Join us as the friendly rangers at Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska take us on a trip to identify the whales just outside their door! Email address required to register!
Art Club (Grades K-5)
Wed, Feb 01, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Each session will highlight a different artist- we will learn about their craft and try out their unique style for ourselves. 6 week... more
Each session will highlight a different artist- we will learn about their craft and try out their unique style for ourselves. 6 week program; sign up for all or choose individual sessions to attend
This event is full
Pajama Storytime
Wed, Feb 01, 6:30pm - 6:50pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Come in your PJs and join us for bedtime stories and lullabies!
This event is full
Teen Craft: 3D Origami Sea Turtle
Wed, Feb 01, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens, ages 12 to 18, will learn how to fold 3D origami modules and create a sea turtle model. Registration is required.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-24 Months
Thu, Feb 02, 10:15am - 10:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
A 30 minute storytime for children ages Birth-24 months, with their caregiver(s). We will sing songs, read books, bounce, wiggle, and move!
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Feb 02, 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.
Crafters' Gathering
Thu, Feb 02, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room A
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 in this twice-monthly club.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth to 23 months
Thu, Feb 02, 10:30am - 11:00am
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to... more
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to enhance important pre-literacy skills.
Virtual Storytime: Ages 4-6
Thu, Feb 02, 10:30am - 10:50am
Dyer-Schererville - Dyer-Schererville Zoom Room
A storytime program for children of all ages, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and rhymes teach early literacy... more
A storytime program for children of all ages, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and rhymes teach early literacy skills.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Thu, Feb 02, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
A storytime program featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a take home craft that teach pre-reading skills for kids 4-6. Please... more
A storytime program featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a take home craft that teach pre-reading skills for kids 4-6. Please register all attending.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Thu, Feb 02, 11:00am - 11:30am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
This is a storytime program for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home... more
This is a storytime program 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.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Thu, Feb 02, 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
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-24 Months
Thu, Feb 02, 11:15am - 11:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
A 30 minute storytime for children ages Birth-24 months, with their caregiver(s). We will sing songs, read books, bounce, wiggle, and move!
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Thu, Feb 02, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
In this storytime toddlers (ages 2 and 3), accompanied by a caregiver, will participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities.... more
In this storytime toddlers (ages 2 and 3), accompanied by a caregiver, will participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities will help to develop important pre-literacy skills.
This event is full
Library Social Hour
Thu, Feb 02, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
If you are new to the area or a life-long resident then join us for coffee, activities and conversation every 1st Thursday of the month.... more
If you are new to the area or a life-long resident then join us for coffee, activities and conversation every 1st Thursday of the month. Catch up with old friends and meet new ones!
Cold Cold Bones by Kathy Reichs - Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club
Thu, Feb 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the discussion of Cold Cold Bones, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for February 2023. Pick up a copy at... more
Join the discussion of Cold Cold Bones, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for February 2023. Pick up a copy at the Highland Branch.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth to 23 months
Thu, Feb 02, 4:00pm - 4:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to... more
For this storytime babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to enhance important pre-literacy skills.
PreTeen D&D Fantasy Quest (Ages:8-12)
Thu, Feb 02, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us on our journey: Heroes of Sol'an, 5th edition family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. New players welcome.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, Feb 02, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
English Classes are for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Classes are free.
Power Paws for Kids
Thu, Feb 02, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster Branch - Children's Area
Children will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.
Acrylic Painting (FEE)
Sat, Feb 04, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Create a unique painting with assistance from local artist Mary Stang-Helm. Cash fee of $25 paid at time of event covers all materials.... more
Create a unique painting with assistance from local artist Mary Stang-Helm. Cash fee of $25 paid at time of event covers all materials. Class begins promptly at 10:00 a.m.
Family Storytime: Ages Birth - 6
Sat, Feb 04, 10:00am - 11:00am
St. John - Children's Program Room
A 30 minute storytime for children ages Birth - 6 and their family. We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!
Stitch'n Time
Sat, Feb 04, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Bring your current projects (knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, etc.) for an opportunity to chat and create! Other attendees... more
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.
Citizenship Class
Mon, Feb 06, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Classes to help prepare adults for the United States Immigration examination, to become naturalized citizens.
Emma (2020) - Movie Monday
Mon, Feb 06, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Seating is limited. Registration is required.
Teen NWI Chess Club
Mon, Feb 06, 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.
Teen Black Author Book Tasting
Mon, Feb 06, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Teens are invited to join us as we sample books by Black authors in honor of Black History Month. From romance to science fiction,... more
Teens are invited to join us as we sample books by Black authors in honor of Black History Month. From romance to science fiction, mysteries to novels in verse, there's something for everyone!
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, Feb 06, 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.
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, Feb 06, 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.
English as a Second Language (ESL) - ESL
Mon, Feb 06, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
English Classes are for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Classes are free.
Teen Anime Club
Mon, Feb 06, 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.
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, Feb 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will be provided. ... more
Teens are invited to help the Highland branch create projects and programs that you would like to attend. Snacks will be provided. Registration required. Ages 12 – 18.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Feb 07, 10:15am - 10:45am
St. John - Children's Program Room
A 30 minute program for toddlers, ages 2-3 with their caregiver(s). We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!
Travel Film: Paris
Tue, Feb 07, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Paris. Runtime: 60mins. Please register.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Feb 07, 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.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 months 
Tue, Feb 07, 10:30am - 10:50am
Munster - Large Meeting 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
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Feb 07, 10:30am - 10:50am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
A storytime program for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that... more
A storytime program 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.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth - 23 months
Tue, Feb 07, 10:30am - 11:00am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Program for babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, filled with rhymes, books, music, and... more
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.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Feb 07, 11:15am - 11:45am
St. John - Children's Program Room
A 30 minute program for toddlers, ages 2-3 with their caregiver(s). We will read books, sing songs, and take home a craft!
Storytime: Ages 4-5
Tue, Feb 07, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
For this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an... more
For 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, Feb 07, 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.
Marry Me
Tue, Feb 07, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
A heartbroken pop star (Jennifer Lopez) spontaneously weds a stranger from the audience (Owen Wilson) while live on stage. PG-13 1h 52min
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Tue, Feb 07, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
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.
This event is full
Homemade Valentine's Craft Party!
Tue, Feb 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
A program for children of all ages and their families to come craft homemade valentines, all supplies included!
Feed the Birds (Grades K-5) - Celebrating National Bird-Feeding Month
Tue, Feb 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
In this program children in grades K-5 will learn how to make a heart-shaped bird feeder, and other simple feeders, to help our... more
In this program children in grades K-5 will learn how to make a heart-shaped bird feeder, and other simple feeders, to help our feathered friends during the height of winter, when they need it most.
Yoga & Breathing
Tue, Feb 07, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
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.
Teen Alphabet Club - GSA/LGBTQ+ Teens & Allies Support and Discussion Group
Tue, Feb 07, 6:00pm - 7:45pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
We are proud to be hosting a support, education, & social space for LGBTQ+ teens & their allies. Teens (12-18) are welcome.
See all events