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Borrowing Privileges

Library cards are available at all locations!

To Get Your Library Card:

Questions? Contact the Circulation Department at 219-769-3541, ext. 364.

Types of Library Card:


Full Access Card (Resident)

  • You live in one of the following school districts (or own property or a business located in these districts):

    • Griffith Public Schools • Hanover Community School Corporation • Highland School Town • Hobart School City • Lake Central School Corporation
    • Lake Ridge Schools • Lake Station Community Schools • Merrillville Community School • Munster School Town • River Forest Community School Corporation


    Not sure? Check our map to see all the library districts of Lake County or enter your address here (Use the Search by Address tab) to see which library district you pay taxes to.
    If you own a business in our library district but do not live in our district, you can apply for a card here.

  • You have priority access to materials at all 9 of our locations as well as full digital access (ebooks, audiobooks, music, research databases, etc).


 

Limited Access Card (Reciprocal)

  • You live in a district which pays taxes to another library system, or you are a non-resident teacher or student, or your card has been issued to a business or institution, not to an individual.

  • You have limited borrowing privileges at the Lake County Public Library, but may subscribe to LCPL for full access. Here's how it works:

    • Upgrading costs $55/year

    • You get complete access to all of our materials 

    • You can use our inter-library loan services and make purchase requests

 

Borrowing Privileges for Non-Residents, Teachers, Businesses, and Students



Gold or Silver Card

Recognizing the importance of volunteers and their service, the Lake County Public Library presents special gold and silver volunteer library cards.

These cards enable volunteers who have completed many hours of service at the library to check out more items at one time than normal cards. In addition, whereas most items are fine free for all at LCPL, even special items like video games or Bestseller Express books are fine free when checked out on a gold or silver card.

Adult Gold Cards

Volunteers (18 years or older) who complete 100 hours of service will earn a Gold Card. The Gold Card may only be used by the named cardholder and not by any other family member.

Juvenile Silver Cards

Juvenile volunteers (under the age of 18) who complete 50 hours of volunteer service will earn a Silver Card. The Silver Card may only be used by the named cardholder and not by any other family member. The card will expire on the 18th birthday of the cardholder but can be renewed annually as long as the volunteer is actively volunteering. The Silver cardholder has until their 21st birthday to earn the additional 50 volunteers hours to convert to a Gold card.

Gold and Silver Cardholders' Responsibilities

  • Do not lend card to family members or friends.

  • Use your card (library purges all library cards after three years with no use).

  • Renew or return materials if you receive an overdue notice.

  • Pay for lost or damaged materials when you are billed.

  • Follow the Library's Code of Conduct.

Failure to follow the above could result in loss of your special library card privileges.

Upcoming Events
Fri, Mar 28, 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

Fri, Mar 28, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Hobart Branch Library - Children's Area
Meet and read to a local LCC K-9 comfort dog and its handler. LCC K-9 comfort dogs show kindness and calm to people throughout the... more
Meet and read to a local LCC K-9 comfort dog and its handler. LCC K-9 comfort dogs show kindness and calm to people throughout the community and beyond, making them excellent listeners for all ages.

Sat, Mar 29, 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

Mon, Mar 31, 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

Mon, Mar 31, 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.
This event is full

Mon, Mar 31, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Set in northern Montana, this is a story of friendship, forgiveness, and moving forward.

Mon, Mar 31, 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 31, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Dyer-Schererville Library - Meeting Room
Learn the essentials of proper guinea pig and rabbit care with Moon Dog Farm! Teen volunteers will also help make enrichment toys for... more
Learn the essentials of proper guinea pig and rabbit care with Moon Dog Farm! Teen volunteers will also help make enrichment toys for guinea pigs and rabbits to play with.

Mon, Mar 31, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Join us at the library to make a wall decoration made from a CD. We will be using the art technique: pointillism for this project.... more
Join us at the library to make a wall decoration made from a CD. We will be using the art technique: pointillism for this project. Supplies are limited. Registration is required. Ages 12-18.

Tue, Apr 01, 10:15am - 11:00am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Children will develop pre-reading skills as they enjoy stories, music, and a craft.

Tue, Apr 01, 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.

Tue, Apr 01, 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.

Tue, Apr 01, 10:30am - 11:00am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote early literacy skills. Please register all attending.
This event is full

Tue, Apr 01, 10:30am - 11:30am
St. John - Children's Program Room
Join us for this month's travel film about Western Europe. Light refreshments will be served. Please register.

Tue, Apr 01, 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.

Tue, Apr 01, 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.

Tue, Apr 01, 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.

Tue, Apr 01, 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 01, 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.

Tue, Apr 01, 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.

Tue, Apr 01, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Hobart - Large Meeting Room
Join us for a fun and educational afternoon to discuss healthier cleaning solutions and make a bottle of your own earth-friendly... more
Join us for a fun and educational afternoon to discuss healthier cleaning solutions and make a bottle of your own earth-friendly cleaner. Please register.

Tue, Apr 01, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Merrillville - Small Group Room #3,The Libratory
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

Tue, Apr 01, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Enjoy family time playing fun games like Monopoly, Candyland, Clue, and Uno!

Wed, Apr 02, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
Bring your current craft project and join the conversation!

Wed, Apr 02, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Merrillville - Meeting Room B
As a part of National Poetry Month, come to our writing session at the library. No sharing or critiquing required, just some inspiration... more
As a part of National Poetry Month, come to our writing session at the library. No sharing or critiquing required, just some inspiration and a quiet place to be creative.

Wed, Apr 02, 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.

Wed, Apr 02, 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.
This event is full

Wed, Apr 02, 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!

Wed, Apr 02, 6:00pm - 7:15pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Teens & Tweens (ages 10-17) will be taken on a Food Adventure. In April, we will be making Mason Jar Pies.To ensure there is enough... more
Teens & Tweens (ages 10-17) will be taken on a Food Adventure. In April, we will be making Mason Jar Pies.To ensure there is enough supplies and to address food allergies, registration is required.

Wed, Apr 02, 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!

Wed, Apr 02, 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

Wed, Apr 02, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LCPL Virtual Branch - Public Virtual Mtg Rm 1
Join other readers for a livestream conversation with Jodi Picoult about their novel, By Any Other Name.

Thu, Apr 03, 10:15am - 10:45am
St. John - Large Meeting Room
This half hour lap-sit program uses songs and rhymes to foster language development.
This event is full

Thu, Apr 03, 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, Apr 03, 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.

Thu, Apr 03, 10:30am - 11:15am
Highland - Children's Programming Room
This is a storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a craft that promote pre-reading skills for kids 4-6. Please register... more
This is a storytime featuring stories, fingerplays, music, and a craft that promote pre-reading skills for kids 4-6. Please register all attending.

Thu, Apr 03, 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.  

Thu, 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.
This event is full

Thu, Apr 03, 11:00am - 11:30am
Hobart - Children's Program Room
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote... more
This is a storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that promote early literacy skills. Please register all attending.

Thu, Apr 03, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Children's Programming Room
Elementary aged homeschool students are invited to join us for a unique project each month.
This event is full

Thu, Apr 03, 11:15am - 12:00pm
St. John - Large Meeting Room
This half hour lap-sit program uses songs and rhymes to foster language development.

Thu, Apr 03, 11:30am - 12:15pm
Cedar Lake - Children's Programming Room
Toddlers ages 2 and 3, accompanied by a caregiver, will participate in stories, finger plays, and music activities. Activities will help... more
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

Thu, Apr 03, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Griffith-Calumet Twp - Meeting Room
Youth (ages 10-17) are invited to register and attend this event where we will be doing various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering... more
Youth (ages 10-17) are invited to register and attend this event where we will be doing various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities.
This event is full

Thu, Apr 03, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Highland - Meeting Room A
Join the discussion of Extinction by Douglas Preston, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for April. Pick up a... more
Join the discussion of Extinction by Douglas Preston, which is our Once Upon a Crime Mystery Book Club selection for April. Pick up a copy at the Highland Branch.

Thu, Apr 03, 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

Thu, Apr 03, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Merrillville - Children's Programming Room
Join us on our journey! This is a family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. We will be using Heroes of Sol'an - 5th... more
Join us on our journey! This is a family friendly Dungeons and Dragons campaign for preteens. We will be using Heroes of Sol'an - 5th edition. New players are welcome.

Thu, Apr 03, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Teens, join us as we craft with buttons to make unique pictures! Supplies provided; if you have buttons, bring them! For ages 12-18.

Thu, Apr 03, 6:00pm - 8:15pm
Munster - Large Meeting Room
D&D comes to the Munster Branch Library! Join our campaign for Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk and get to the bottom of what... more
D&D comes to the Munster Branch Library! Join our campaign for Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk and get to the bottom of what is plaguing the town of Phandalin.
This event is full

Sat, Apr 05, 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.

Sat, Apr 05, 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

Sat, Apr 05, 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.

Sat, Apr 05, 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.

Sat, Apr 05, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Station-New Chicago - Large Meeting Room
Learn how to play Mah Jongg at the library or join the group if you already know the rules. Beginners are welcome! Please register. Ages... more
Learn how to play Mah Jongg at the library or join the group if you already know the rules. Beginners are welcome! Please register. Ages 18 and older.

Sat, Apr 05, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Dyer-Schererville - Meeting Room Whole (A & B)
Teens, choose your fighter and attack! Snacks provided. Other games may be available. Bring your Nintendo Switch joy-con controllers if... more
Teens, choose your fighter and attack! Snacks provided. Other games may be available. Bring your Nintendo Switch joy-con controllers if you can!