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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

• 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
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth-23 months
Wed, Sep 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
This 20-minute lap-sit program uses songs and rhymes to foster language development.
Citizenship Class
Wed, Sep 28, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Helps prepare adults for the USCIS immigration test for Citizenship.
Medicare 101
Wed, Sep 28, 10:45am - 11:45am
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Important changes are coming to Medicare in 2023. Come to a FREE educational presentation at the library to find out what, and get the... more
Important changes are coming to Medicare in 2023. Come to a FREE educational presentation at the library to find out what, and get the answers you need to your other Medicare questions as well!
Off the Hook
Wed, Sep 28, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your favorite yarn or thread project and enjoy some great company while you create! All crafters and crafts are welcome!
Kids Club: Ages 6-12 - Puffy Painting
Wed, Sep 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Children will create pictures using puffy paint! Registration is required for each person in the room.
Crochet @ Your Library
Wed, Sep 28, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
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!
Teen Drawing
Wed, Sep 28, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Come on into the library to relax & draw anything you like. Paper & coloring pencils will be supplied but you can also bring your own if... more
Come on into the library to relax & draw anything you like. Paper & coloring pencils will be supplied but you can also bring your own if you like. Must register. Ages 12-18
All Ability: Gaming & Coloring
Wed, Sep 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Cedar Lake - Meeting Room A
All Ability programs are geared towards adults with special needs but are open to everyone age 10+. Caretakers must stay in the room.
Teen DIY Piñata Making - 2 Part Program: Sept 21st & Sept. 28th
Wed, Sep 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
Teens (11-17 years old) make your own piñata for Hispanic Heritage Month. Two part program, Part 1 on Sept 21st & Part 2 on Sept 28th.... more
Teens (11-17 years old) make your own piñata for Hispanic Heritage Month. Two part program, Part 1 on Sept 21st & Part 2 on Sept 28th. Must be able to attend both dates. Registration required.
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Sep 29, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp
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.
Medicare Class
Thu, Sep 29, 10:45am - 11:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Important changes are coming to Medicare in 2023. Do you know what they are? Come to a FREE educational presentation to find out,... more
Important changes are coming to Medicare in 2023. Do you know what they are? Come to a FREE educational presentation to find out, and get the answers you need to your other Medicare questions also!
Rescheduled
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Sep 29, 11:15am - 1:15pm
New date Thursday, September 29, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp
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.
Educated by Tara Westover - Between the Lines Book Discussion
Thu, Sep 29, 11:15am - 12:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "Educated" by Tara Westover. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville... more
The Between the Lines Book Club reads "Educated" by Tara Westover. Books for this discussion can be picked up at the Dyer-Schererville branch a month prior to the event.
Genealogy Class: Understanding US Census Data - 1790-1950
Thu, Sep 29, 1:30pm - 2:45pm
Merrillville - Merrillville Zoom Room,Meeting Room B
Presenter Scott Norrick will cover census history, data collected, common errors, supplements, little known gems, sources and getting... more
Presenter Scott Norrick will cover census history, data collected, common errors, supplements, little known gems, sources and getting the most out of your census research for each decade. 
Canceled
Adult Craft Night: Halloween Fairy Garden
Thu, Sep 29, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Munster
In our next adult craft night we'll make Halloween fairy gardens! We'll have a small collections of miniatures and supplies you can use,... more
In our next adult craft night we'll make Halloween fairy gardens! We'll have a small collections of miniatures and supplies you can use, but feel free to bring your own as well!
Teen Dungeons & Dragons Campaign - Levels 1-5
Thu, Sep 29, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Game master Milia will start the adventurers off in their new campaign. If you are a player looking for a D&D group or have always been... more
Game master Milia will start the adventurers off in their new campaign. If you are a player looking for a D&D group or have always been curious about the game come join us!
This event is full
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, Sep 29, 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.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, Sep 29, 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.
Family Storytime: Ages Birth - 6
Sat, Oct 01, 10:00am - 10:30am
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!
This event is full
Acrylic Painting: SRP (FEE)
Sat, Oct 01, 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.
This event is full
Stitch'n Time
Sat, Oct 01, 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.
Canceled
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Sat, Oct 01, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville
English Classes are for participants who are learning English as a second language. Different levels are available. Classes are free.
Citizenship Class
Mon, Oct 03, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Classes to help prepare adults for the United States Immigration examination, or the Citizenship test.
International Film: God of the Piano
Mon, Oct 03, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
International Film Series. Adults only. Hebrew with English subtitles. 80 Minutes. Registration required.
Remember the Titans (2000) - Movie Monday
Mon, Oct 03, 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, Oct 03, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Teens in 6th-12th grades are invited to join the NWI Chess Club. Please register and bring your own board.
One-On-One Tech Help: Everyday Technology
Mon, Oct 03, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Receive individualized instruction in basic computer skills.
This event is full
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Mon, Oct 03, 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.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Mon, Oct 03, 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.
Teen Advisory Board
Mon, Oct 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 12 - 18 can attend. Zoom available.
An Introduction to Investigating the Paranormal - presented by Northwest Indiana Paranormal
Mon, Oct 03, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Interested in learning about being a paranormal investigator? The group will show pictures & evidence from some of their... more
Interested in learning about being a paranormal investigator? The group will show pictures & evidence from some of their investigations, feature their latest equipment, and answer questions.
Teen Anime Club
Mon, Oct 03, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Are you a fan of anime or manga? Come to the Lake Station-New Chicago's Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch and to discuss your... more
Are you a fan of anime or manga? Come to the Lake Station-New Chicago's Teen Anime Club to find new anime to watch and to discuss your favorite manga. Ages 12-18.
TEEN Advisory Board
Mon, Oct 03, 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. Ages 12 – 18.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Oct 04, 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!
This event is full
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Oct 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Highland - Children's Programming 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
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Tue, Oct 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Munster - Children's Program Room
Children will develop pre-reading skills as they enjoy stories, rhymes, music, and a craft. Must register.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Oct 04, 10:30am - 10:50am
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that teach early... more
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that teach early literacy skills.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Tue, Oct 04, 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, Oct 04, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an emphasis on important... more
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.
Baby Storytime: Ages Birth - 23 Months
Tue, Oct 04, 11:30am - 12:00pm
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.
This event is full
Dear Evan Hansen
Tue, Oct 04, 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Evan Hansen embarks on a journey of self-discovery when a letter he wrote for a writing exercise falls into the hands of a grieving... more
Evan Hansen embarks on a journey of self-discovery when a letter he wrote for a writing exercise falls into the hands of a grieving couple whose son took his own life. 2h17min; PG-13
TeenTober: Robotics Haunted House
Tue, Oct 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Teens will use block coding to program our robots through a Halloween themed obstacle course! All supplies will be provided. Ages 12-18.... more
Teens will use block coding to program our robots through a Halloween themed obstacle course! All supplies will be provided. Ages 12-18. Registration required.
Virtual Family Storytime
Tue, Oct 04, 4:00pm - 4:20pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Lake Station Zoom Room
Join us via zoom for a family storytime for children 2-6 and their caregivers, featuring stories, fingerplays, and songs that teach... more
Join us via zoom for a family storytime for children 2-6 and their caregivers, featuring stories, fingerplays, and songs that teach pre-reading skills. Please register with an email to take part.
Teen Advisory Board
Tue, Oct 04, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Hobart - Programming Room
Earn volunteer hours while helping us plan teen programming and services. For grades 6-12.
Yoga & Breathing
Tue, Oct 04, 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.
Homebuying 2022 -
Tue, Oct 04, 6:05pm - 7:05pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
Homebuying in 2022: Information for first time home buyers and current or previous home owners to consider when purchasing a home in... more
Homebuying in 2022: Information for first time home buyers and current or previous home owners to consider when purchasing a home in today's market.
Citizenship Class
Wed, Oct 05, 10:30am - 11:30am
Merrillville - Meeting Room C
Helps prepare adults for the USCIS immigration test for Citizenship.
An Afternoon of Scrabble
Wed, Oct 05, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp Branch - Public Table
Folks of all ages are invited to a fun afternoon of Scrabble. Increase your vocabulary while having a great time! Bring a friend!
Off the Hook
Wed, Oct 05, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your favorite yarn or thread project and enjoy some great company while you create! All crafters and crafts are welcome!
Home School Hangout
Wed, Oct 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
A space for kids that are home schooled where they can meet other kids and bond over various activities.
Bounce and Roll: Ages 6 - 11
Wed, Oct 05, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Children ages 6 - 11 will participate in various bouncing and rolling activities, then make a table top game to take home!
LEGO® Club (Grades K-5)
Wed, Oct 05, 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, Oct 05, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
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!
Rescheduled
Teens Preview Purdue Night
Wed, Oct 05, 5:00pm - 7:30pm
New date Thursday, October 06, 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Dyer-Schererville
Preview Purdue invites prospective students and parents in the Lake County area to come hear a formal presentation on Purdue University... more
Preview Purdue invites prospective students and parents in the Lake County area to come hear a formal presentation on Purdue University and the admissions process.
Family Storytime: Ages 2-6
Wed, Oct 05, 5:00pm - 5:20pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
Toddler and preschool aged children and their caregivers are invited to an early literacy storytime filled with books, songs, and rhymes.
Teen Talk to Text - Writing Workshop with Author, Sharon Biggs Waller
Wed, Oct 05, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Teens are invited to join us for a special writing workshop with author, Sharon Biggs Waller.
Art Club (Grades K-5)
Wed, Oct 05, 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
Baby And Me
Thu, Oct 06, 10:15am - 10:45am
St. John - Children's Program 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!
This event is full
Thursday Threaders
Thu, Oct 06, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp
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.
Mother Goose on the Loose: Ages Birth to 23 months
Thu, Oct 06, 10:30am - 10:50am
Lake Station-New Chicago - Children's Program Room
Babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to enhance important... more
Babies and toddlers will participate in stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and music activities designed to enhance important pre-literacy skills.
Crafters' Gathering
Thu, Oct 06, 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.
Storytime: Ages 4-6
Thu, Oct 06, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
Storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a take home craft that teach pre-reading skills for kids 4-6.
Tech Help for Your Personal Device
Thu, Oct 06, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago Library - Main Lobby
Technology can be tricky...Come to the library to see if we can help you with the issues you are having with your device. Patron must... more
Technology can be tricky...Come to the library to see if we can help you with the issues you are having with your device. Patron must bring their device with them. Please register.
Storytime: Ages 2-3
Thu, Oct 06, 11:00am - 11:30am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that teach early... more
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that teach early literacy skills.
Baby And Me
Thu, Oct 06, 11:15am - 11:45am
St. John - Children's Program 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, Oct 06, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
Toddlers, 2 and 3 years of age, accompanied by a caregiver will participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities... more
Toddlers, 2 and 3 years of age, accompanied by a caregiver will participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities will help to develop important pre-literacy skills.
The Chain by Adrian McKinty - Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club
Thu, Oct 06, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the discussion of The Chain, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for October. Pick up a copy at the Highland... more
Join the discussion of The Chain, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for October. Pick up a copy at the Highland Branch.
DIY Beaded Keychain (K-6 Grade)
Thu, Oct 06, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us as we read a spooky story and make Jack-O-Lantern beaded key chains.
Teens Preview Purdue Night
Thu, Oct 06, 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Preview Purdue invites prospective students and parents in the Lake County area to come hear a formal presentation on Purdue University... more
Preview Purdue invites prospective students and parents in the Lake County area to come hear a formal presentation on Purdue University and the admissions process.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, Oct 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.
Canceled
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Thu, Oct 06, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Merrillville
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, Oct 06, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster Branch - Children's Area
Children of all ages and reading levels will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer.... more
Children of all ages and reading levels will have the opportunity to read aloud to a Power Paws therapy dog and their volunteer. Registration of all attendees is required.
Crafty Adult: Fall Luminaries - Ages 18 and Up
Fri, Oct 07, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Create Halloween or Autumn themed luminaries during this session. One glass jar will be provided--you may bring additional jars of your... more
Create Halloween or Autumn themed luminaries during this session. One glass jar will be provided--you may bring additional jars of your own if you'd like. Registration is required.
See all events