Library Updates

Discover Indiana’s Forgotten Stories with Author Joseph S. Pete

Posted by lclemons on 09 February 26

Indiana is full of history—some of it well-known, and some nearly forgotten. On Monday, February 16 at 6 p.m., the Crown Point Community Library welcomes Joseph S. Pete, award-winning Indiana journalist and author, for a special discussion of his book Lost Treasures of Indiana.

Published in 2025, Lost Treasures of Indiana uncovers the stories behind the state’s nostalgic and lesser-known landmarks. From old amusement parks and classic drive-in theaters to beloved institutions like Market Square Arena and Mesker Park Zoo, Pete explores places that once defined communities and left lasting impressions on generations of Hoosiers.

The book also highlights some truly unique chapters of Indiana history—such as diving horses and the first “race” at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which famously featured balloons instead of cars. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Pete brings these forgotten moments back into the spotlight.

At this free program, attendees will hear directly from the author about his journey researching Indiana’s past, the stories that surprised him most, and why preserving local history matters. A question-and-answer session will follow.

Event Details:
📅 Monday, February 16
⏰ 6 p.m.
📍 Crown Point Community Library
💲 Free (registration required)

Register online: https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=3652&EventID=577496&PK=
Or call: (219) 306-4593

Join us for an evening of history, nostalgia, and Hoosier pride.

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Mission:

The Friends of the Crown Point Library’s mission is to enhance and promote the use and enjoyment of the library. They raise funds to support library programs and services, as well as to help fund items not generally covered in the library’s regular operating budget.

Become a member:

Membership is open to all individuals and families who want involvement in the library. Members are encouraged to attend monthly meetings and to actively participate in book sales, other events, and projects. The membership year begins on January 1 and ends on December 31. All dues are paid annually.

The membership dues are as follows:

Life – $150;
Family – $15;
Individual – $10

Membership forms are available at both library locations, or you can download the membership form and return it to:

Friends of the Crown Point Library
122 N. Main Street
Crown Point, IN 46307

What we do:

As a Friend, you will play a critical role in your library’s and community’s success.

ADVOCATE – Friends are a voice for the Library on relevant, local, state, and national issues.

ENGAGE – Friends spread the word within the community, stimulating greater awareness of the Library and its resources.

SUPPORT – Friends volunteer at fundraising events and library events as needed.

FUNDRAISE – Friends fundraising activities, such as Bunco for Books, literary luncheons, bus trips, and book sales generate revenue to fund items not generally covered in the Library’s budget, and to sponsor programs such as the summer and winter reading events, author talks, concerts, library book discussion groups, Book Baby Bags, and a variety of literacy outreach services.

Meetings:

Curious to see what the Friends of the Library are doing? Attend a meeting! Meetings are held quarterly on the second Tuesday of the month, alternating times at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. in the meeting rooms at the Crown Point location.

2025 Meeting Dates:

February 11 at 10 a.m., May 13 at 6 p.m., September 9 at 6 p.m., December 9 at 10 a.m.

Download a copy of our 2025 Calendar of Activities

Contact Us:

Call: (219) 663-0270

Email: cpclfriends@gmail.com

Residents of Center Township and Winfield Township are eligible for a free Crown Point Community Library card.

You can apply in person at either library location or online through our website.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Adults (18 and older):
Bring a valid photo ID and proof of your current address.

Photo ID options: State-issued ID with current address, Passport, Military ID, Official School ID, or Matricula Consular
Proof of address: Rental agreement, utility bill, or checkbook showing your local address

Minors (17 and younger):
A parent or guardian must sign the application.

TEACHER CARDS

Teachers working in schools within the Crown Point Community Library service area apply for a Teacher Library Card. Please provide proof of current employment, such as a recent pay stub or an official school ID.

RECIPROCAL BORROWERS

The Crown Point Community Library card is honored at all Indiana libraries that participate in reciprocal borrowing, including many in Northwest Indiana.

You must be in good standing with our library before other libraries will issue you a reciprocal card.
Residents of the Lake County Public Library District can obtain a CPCL card with proper identification.
Patrons from other library districts may receive a CPCL card after completing an application and confirming their home library account is in good standing.

Note: Reciprocal borrowers have the same borrowing privileges as CPCL patrons, except for access to eBooks and downloadable audiobooks.

Call (219) 663-0270 prompt #4

Email questions@crownpointlibrary.org