The Friends of the Crown Point Library invite the community to participate in a special raffle this May for a one-of-a-kind heirloom quilt generously donated by former Friends president Carol Fisher.
More than a beautiful handcrafted piece, this quilt carries a remarkable family story. It was created by Carol’s grandmother, Luella Nugent, who lived in Columbus, Ohio, and was known for her sewing and quilting talents. Luella worked as a seamstress and created quilts for her family, combining artistry with practicality during an era when handmade household items were cherished necessities.
Recognizing the quilt’s history and craftsmanship, the Friends selected it as a featured raffle prize all its own.
Tickets will be on sale from May 1 through June 11 for $10 each or three for $20. Tickets can be purchased at the Crown Point Community Library. Cash or checks made payable to the Friends of the Crown Point Library are accepted. The winning ticket will be drawn on Thursday, June 11.
Community members are encouraged to stop by the library to view the quilt, which is currently on display.
Proceeds from this fundraiser benefit the Friends of the Crown Point Library, whose support helps enrich library programs and services. We sincerely thank you for your support.
To learn more about the quilt’s story, Rose Kendall recently interviewed Carol and gathered what provenance the family could share.
Carol told Rose, “My grandmother, Luella, may have created it as a young mother—or possibly later in life, when she worked as a seamstress for a custom shirt tailor in Columbus, Ohio.”
As was typical of the period, one of the primary responsibilities for women keeping house was needlework. Luella’s first quilts were likely sewn by hand as she raised her young children.
As Grandma Luella’s skill as a textile artisan grew, she made additional quilts for her family. She also worked outside the home as a seamstress at a custom men’s retail shop, where she sewed shirts.
At one point, Luella considered leaving her job as a professional seamstress; balancing childcare and work outside the home had become too difficult. But the shop owner recognized the exceptional quality of her work and arranged an industrial sewing setup so she could continue making tailored shirts from home.
Ohio State University (OSU) documents the history of handmade garments in Columbus, Ohio.
The following excerpt provides helpful context:
Throughout much of the 19th century, up until the perfection of the sewing machine in the 1850s, clothing was predominantly custom-made to fit each
customer’s specific sizes. In 1852 Columbus city directory, William Burdell, a merchant in the city, was one of the first to advertise this “new way” of making clothing by machine, comparing it to recent and improved means of transportation, the railway, and the latest means of communication, the telegraph. New technology, along with the development of men’s sizing standards during the Civil War, which were a necessity
for the mass production of military uniforms, helped the ready-made clothing manufacturing industry grow and prosper. In Columbus, Simon Lazarus, who founded the S. Lazarus department store downtown in 1851, recognized that soldiers returning from the war would need civilian clothing. In order to capitalize on this demand and expand his business, he traveled to manufacturers in Rochester, New York and purchased a better class of ready-made merchandise. The Lazarus store would go on to become one of the most
successful and influential retailers in the Midwest, eventually merging with Macy’s in 2003.
The 19th-century industrial revolution made fabrics more readily available, and anyone working in the garment trade would have had a rich source of supplies for quilt making.
Carol reminisces, “As a teenager, I knew my grandmother was making quilts. Our family talked about Grandma’s ability to quilt. I remember visiting Columbus, where her grandparents spent their entire lives. Grandma kept her collection in dresser drawers—they were the household blankets, not ornamental crafts.”
So how did the quilt end up in Crown Point, Indiana?
Evelyn, Carol’s mother, attended a business college in Columbus, met and married Clarence Fisher, a chemical engineering graduate of nearby Ohio State. After the Great Ohio River Flood of 1937, Carol’s parents moved their young family to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Following an industrial accident and with a new baby during the Depression era, the couple reconsidered their path. Clarence contacted a former professor, who suggested opportunities in Gary at U.S. Steel. Clarence was hired on the spot, and off to Northwest Indiana the Fisher family went.
Carol recalls, “My mom, also a good seamstress, would always hem her ‘short’ dad’s cuffs.” So, did the legacy of sewing pass on to Carol? Carol laughs at the thought: “Well, I’ve made a few scarves and things over the years to gift to others… but nothing compares to the beautiful needlework of my ancestors.”
When Grandma Luella passed away in 1973, her quilts were distributed among her children and, over time, to her grandchildren. Carol received several and donated this one to the Friends of the Crown Point Library Raffle.
In celebration of National Library Week and School Library Month, the Crown Point Community Library extends heartfelt thanks to our community for your continued support of public and school libraries, literacy, and lifelong learning.
This special time of year is an opportunity to recognize the many ways libraries strengthen communities—and here in Crown Point, one of the most meaningful examples is the strong partnership between the Crown Point Community Library and the Crown Point Community School Corporation.
Together, the library and schools are helping create a continuous classroom that supports students from early childhood through graduation. By aligning resources, programs, and shared goals, this collaboration ensures students and families have access to tools that inspire learning, creativity, and success.
Some highlights of this partnership include:
One District, One Book programming that brings stories to life through library events and enrichment activities
Youth Art Month exhibits showcasing more than 500 pieces of student artwork in the library gallery
Summer Reading initiatives that help combat summer learning loss while encouraging reading for fun
Student outreach and class visits that introduce young learners to library services and resources
Digital access opportunities that expand educational tools beyond the classroom walls
Recently, Library Director Julie Wendorf presented an impact report to the school board highlighting the incredible collaboration between these two community institutions and the value it brings to students, families, and taxpayers alike. We invite residents to read the report and learn more about how this partnership is sustaining excellence through collaboration.
As we celebrate libraries this month, we also invite the community to continue participating in our Find Your Joy at the Library postcard campaign.
There is still time to submit your Joy Postcard and share what makes the library meaningful to you. Whether it’s discovering a new book, attending a family program, using technology resources, or simply finding a welcoming place to connect, we’d love to hear your story.
Your support, stories, and participation help demonstrate the impact libraries have every day.
Thank you for celebrating with us—and thank you for being part of the joy of the library.
In celebration of National Library Week 2026, the Crown Point Library invites the community to participate in our “Share the Joy” Postcard Campaign, inspired by this year’s theme: Find Your Joy.
There’s something special about the moments we experience at the library.
Maybe it’s the excitement of discovering a new book, the comfort of a quiet space, or the connection you feel during a program or event. Whatever it is, those moments matter—and this year, we’re inviting you to share them.
What Brings You Joy at the Library?
We’re asking our community to reflect on one simple question:
“I find joy at the library when…”
During National Library Week, patrons of all ages are invited to complete a postcard sharing what makes the library meaningful to them. Whether it’s a small moment or a lasting impact, your story helps tell the bigger story of how the library serves our community.
How to Participate
Getting involved is easy:
Visit the Crown Point Library or Winfield Branch during National Library Week
Stop by a “Share the Joy” station
Fill out a postcard with your response
Drop it in the collection box
It only takes a minute—but your words can make a lasting impact.
See Your Story on the Community Joy Wall
As postcards are collected, they will be displayed on our Community Joy Wall inside the library—a growing, visual celebration of the moments that matter most to our patrons.
Stop by to read inspiring messages from others, find connections, and see how our community comes together through shared experiences at the library.
Why Your Story Matters
Every response we receive helps highlight the real value of the library—not just as a place, but as a source of connection, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Your stories will help us:
Celebrate our community
Inspire others to visit and engage
Showcase the impact of library services
Selected responses may also be featured in:
Library displays
Social media
Newsletters and publications
A special community video
💛 Find your joy. Share your story. Celebrate your library.
If you love a great bargain and supporting your local library, mark your calendar. The Friends of the Crown Point Community Library’s annual Spring Book Sale is on April 23–24—and this year, there’s even more to explore.
Fill a Bag for $5
Browse a wide selection of gently used books, movies, and more. The best part? You can mix and match items and fill an entire bag for just $5 (bags provided).
Early Access for Members
Friends members get first pick during the exclusive preview on Thursday, April 23 from 9–10 a.m. Not a member yet? You can join at the door and start shopping early.
Don’t Miss the $1 Bag Sale
Come back Friday for the final hour (11 a.m.–12 p.m.) when bags are just $1—perfect for stocking up.
Bonus Surplus Sale
In addition to books and media, the Friends are offering a unique opportunity to purchase surplus library items, including chairs, small furniture, flooring, and more!
These items will be available in Meeting Room 3 during the sale. Important: Bring cash or check, and be ready to take your items home the same day—no holds or delivery.
An early preview of items will be posted the day before the sale.
For more information visit: https://crownpointlibrary.org/about/library-friends/
It may be hard to imagine now, but Indiana was once home to roaming herds of American bison.
By 1830, they were gone.
Even more striking—so was nearly all of their habitat. More than 99% of Indiana’s native prairie disappeared due to agriculture, development, and changing land use. For generations, this landscape—and the wildlife that depended on it—seemed lost for good.
But today, that story is changing.
At Kankakee Sands in northwest Indiana, a major restoration effort led by The Nature Conservancy has been quietly transforming the land for decades. What was once considered unusable farmland has become a thriving prairie ecosystem, with thousands of acres replanted with native species.
And in 2016, something remarkable happened: bison returned.
Starting with just 23 animals, the herd has grown to more than 90 and now roams over 1,100 acres. Their presence is more than symbolic—it’s essential. Bison are a keystone species, meaning their natural behaviors, from grazing to creating wallows, actively shape and strengthen the prairie ecosystem.
Want to learn more about this incredible conservation success story?
Join us at the Crown Point Community Library on Sunday, May 3 at 2 p.m. for “ The Return of Indiana’s Bison.”
Guest speaker Mary Kay Emmrich, Bison Ranger at Kankakee Sands, will share insights into the restoration process, the role of bison, and what this means for the future of Indiana’s natural landscape.
Youth vaping remains a growing concern for families and communities. To help address this issue, the Crown Point Community Library invites you to attend CATCH My Breath: Empowering Youth to Live Vape-Free on Thursday, May 7 at 6 p.m.
This important program will provide insight into:
The dangers and health risks of vaping
Prevention strategies for families and educators
Tools to support youth in making vape-free choices
The evening will begin with an educational presentation and conclude with a panel discussion featuring local professionals with expertise in the legal, public health, and prevention fields.
Meet the Panel:
Judge Kent Jeffirs, Crown Point City Court Judge
Irene Boone-Phillips, Program Coordinator, Lake County Tobacco Prevention & Cessation Coalition
Amanda Morrison, Director of Prevention Services, Geminus Corporation/SAFE
This program is presented by the Crown Point Rotary Club in partnership with SAFE – Supporting Addiction Free Environments and the Crown Point Community Library as part of the Rotary Club’s Youth Mental Health Initiative, a community effort dedicated to supporting the well-being of young people through education and connection.
Who should attend? Parents, guardians, educators, and community members invested in youth health and wellness.
Event Details: Thursday, May 7 6 p.m. Crown Point Community Library, 122 N. Main Street
Something special happens at both library locations on the first Saturday of every month. Young readers have an opportunity to read to a patient, attentive listener by their side.
Not a teacher. Not a parent. A dog.
Read to the Dogs is a unique literacy program designed to help children build confidence and strengthen reading skills in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Through two valued partnerships, Power Paws for Kids, and Greyt Readers. Trained therapy dogs and their handlers visit the library to listen as children read aloud. These dogs are calm, friendly, and—most importantly—nonjudgmental.
That matters more than you might think. For many children, reading aloud can feel intimidating. Fear of making mistakes or being corrected can create anxiety and slow progress. But when a child reads to a dog, that pressure disappears. The experience becomes enjoyable, low-stress, and even fun.
As a result, children often:
Read more fluently
Gain confidence in their abilities
Develop a more positive attitude toward reading
Build stronger communication skills
Programs like Read to the Dogs reflect the Library’s commitment to creating welcoming, innovative learning environments for all ages. By meeting children where they are—and making reading joyful—we help lay the foundation for lifelong learning.
At its heart, this program is about connection: between a child and a story, a child and a listener, and ultimately, a child and their own growing confidence.
Mark your calendars and join us on the first Saturday of the month!
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.
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.
If you love a great bargain and supporting your local library, mark your calendar. The Friends of the Crown Point Community Library’s annual Spring Book Sale is on April 23–24—and this year, there’s even more to explore.
It may be hard to imagine now, but Indiana was once home to roaming herds of American bison.
Youth vaping remains a growing concern for families and communities. To help address this issue, the Crown Point Community Library invites you to attend 
