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LCPL: Beyond Books

Library Services

What can the library do for you?

How about help you learn to use your electronic devices? Or help you track down your great-great-great-aunt? We can recommend a good book, and get it to you for free. We can talk to your students about research, we can help them do that research, and we can give them a place to work on school projects. ¿No hablas Inglés? We can help with that, too. Basically, there's no end to what a library can do for you if you use it!

And, did we mention - all of the services mentioned above and most of the ones below are provided to our patrons completely free.

Seed Libraries

Find seed libraries at Cedar Lake, Highland, Hobart, and Lake Station-New Chicago. Take a seed to plant in your yard; as you harvest, consider saving seeds to return to the library!

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

Children in LCPL school districts under the age of 5 are eligible to receive one free book every month! Learn More...

Talking Books & Braille Library

Free library service to Indiana residents who cannot use standard printed materials. Learn more...

The Libratory

A place to explore, create, experiment, and digitize. Specializing in quick, easy photoscanning - grab your box of old photos and make an appointment today! Learn More...

Public Meeting Rooms

Need a space for your group to meet? How about a smaller room for studying? All of our locations have meeting rooms available to the public! Learn More...

Scan/Fax Capability

Scan photos and documents and send them to your phone, USB, Google Drive, and more! Learn more...

Outreach

We speak to schools, rotary groups, historical societies, community groups and more about how the library's resources can help with specific projects. Call your branch to schedule a talk for your group!

Genealogy

Use library resources to trace your roots. We have online databases that patrons can access for free, as well as local records in our Indiana Room at Merrillville branch. Learn more...

Reader's Advisory

We'll help you, personally, find a book you'll like. Seriously, we're really good at this. Just ask. You can also use our pre-made suggestions and tools for finding books.

Proctoring

Every branch offers proctoring services for open book, closed book, and online exams. Contact your branch to schedule an exam.

Research Specialists

There's no source more reliable than a librarian. We'll find you answers you can trust from reputable sources. Ask us anything online, in person, or over the phone.

English as a Second Language

If you'd like to improve your English speaking, reading, and writing skills, we can help with classes geared to every skill level. We also offer classes for those about to attempt the U.S. Citizenship Exam. Learn more...

Interlibrary Loan

If we don't have a book you're looking for in our collection, we'll get it for you from another library and bring it to the branch of your choice for you to check out - and no, there is no cost to you. Learn more...

Library Tours & Group Visits

Set up a library tour or group visit by calling your branch. This is especially helpful for students who need to learn to use the library for class projects. If you plan to bring a large group, please call ahead of time so that we can prepare space! Learn more...

Public Computers

Our public PCs come equipped with word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software in addition to Internet access and printing. Anyone with a library card can use them!

Classes/Programs

From early literacy classes to crafting classes, there's no end to what you can learn at the library. We have programs and classes for all ages, from newborn infants to senior citizens, all free with your library card. Learn more...

What More Could You Want?

Have you got a service in mind that you wish the library provided? Are you not sure if we can help with something specific? Just ask! You can fill out our Ask a Librarian form or give us a call. All feedback, suggestions, and questions are appreciated.

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

Mon, Mar 27, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

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

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

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

Mon, Mar 27, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Children's Program Room
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be... more
Children (completed grades K-5) may free build with the library's LEGO® blocks or build a 'challenge' project. Constructions will be displayed in the library until the next LEGO® Club meeting. 
This event is full

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

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

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 10:50am
Munster - Children's Program Room
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that teach... more
Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a take home craft, that teach early literacy skills. Please register all attending. 
This event is full

Tue, Mar 28, 10:30am - 1:30pm
Hobart - Children's Program Room
Bring your current painting projects/materials for an opportunity to chat and create!

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

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

Tue, Mar 28, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Relax via this coloring for adults open session. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while getting creative with no pressure for... more
Relax via this coloring for adults open session. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while getting creative with no pressure for perfection. Coloring materials provided. Ages 18 and over.

Tue, Mar 28, 11:00am - 11:30am
Dyer-Schererville - Children's Programming Room
Parents and caregivers of children birth- 23 months are welcome to chat with one another and enjoy a refreshment while children explore... more
Parents and caregivers of children birth- 23 months are welcome to chat with one another and enjoy a refreshment while children explore with books and puzzles! Registration is required.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wed, Mar 29, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the... more
Do you enjoy crafting? Do you wish you had friendly people to work with on those crafts? Bring your current project and enjoy the company every Wednesday! All crafts are welcome.

Wed, Mar 29, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Cedar Lake - Cedar Lake Public Tables
Bring yarn and a size H crochet hook or size 7 knitting needles and cotton yarn ... or bring along a project you're already working on!

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

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

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

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

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

Thu, Mar 30, 10:30am - 12:30pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the... more
Like to cross-stitch, knit, crochet, or do any other craft? Every Thursday, bring and work on your own project while enjoying the company of others.

Thu, Mar 30, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.
This event is full

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mon, Apr 03, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #2
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your... more
Are you having laptop, smartphone, or tablet issues? Book this one-hour session to receive individualized assistance with your technology problems. Patron must bring their device with them.

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

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

Mon, Apr 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Come and enjoy this afternoon movie with us! Popcorn and snacks will be served. Seating is limited. Registration is required.

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

Mon, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12.... more
Earn volunteer hours and help the St. John Branch create teen programs, displays, and more! Refreshments will be served. Grades 6-12. Please register.

Mon, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room,Munster Zoom Room
Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available.... more
Teens get volunteer hours! Help plan programs and projects at the library. Interested teens 11 - 17 can attend. Zoom available. Registration Required.  Programs subject to change.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tue, Apr 04, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an... more
During this storytime 4 and 5 year olds will hear stories and participate in music activities, rhymes, and other activities, with an emphasis on important early pre-reading skills.

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

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

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

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