Clarence Public Library

Clarence Public Library
Library Info

Three Town Place
Clarence, NY 14031
United States

716-741-2650
Fax: 716-741-1243
Monica Mooney, Director

The library is located on Old Goodrich and is next to the Clarence Town Hall. Wheelchair accessible. Parking lot available. Drop box available.

Public Access Computers: 19 computers, networked.  Microsoft Office applications and Internet access.  Printing (including Mobile Printing) from computer: B&W 10¢ per page, color 25¢ per page.  "What can I do at a Public Access Computer?"

Copy machine available: B&W 15¢ per page for letter size.

Fax Machine for outgoing faxes:  The first page is $1.75 and each additional page is $1.00.  A Credit/Debit card may be used or a Fax Card can be purchased.

A Meeting Room is available as a location for community informational services and for programs or meetings of established and recognized groups and associations whose purposes are educational, cultural, civic, or of general community interest.

Assistive technology for the visually impaired:

  • Pebble HD Hand-Held Magnifier is available for use in the library. This item was purchased with funds donated by the Lion's Club of Clarence.
  • Digital Talking Book Players from the New York State Talking Book & Braille Library are available for in-house use by eligible patrons.

What's Special About the Clarence Library:

The library opened at its current location in September 2001 and is one of the largest community libraries in the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library System.

Clarence Children's Reading Garden - Ladybug Storytime-photo for web site

Clarence Public Library Children's Reading Garden:

Dedicated in 2017 and made possible by a grant and donations from organizations as well as members of the community, the unique landscape of the Children’s Reading Garden provides a place for children to develop a lifelong interest and passion for nature.  The garden was developed to provide children with a sensory space—one that is designed to immerse them in the scents, textures and colors of a variety of plants, flowers, and herbs.  Related elements such as wind chimes, gazing balls, bird feeders and a fairy garden also add to this experience.  The Children’s Reading Garden now includes a pollinator garden to attract bees and butterflies and a recently added “Stumpery Garden” that provides a living space for mosses, ferns, mushrooms and other shade-loving forest plants.  These plants have the additional benefit of encouraging and hosting biodiversity while also providing a tranquil atmospheric garden area.  The Children’s Reading is the ideal location for a variety of children’s programs on nature and gardening. The garden is maintained by library staff and volunteers, including members from the Garden Friends of Clarence.  
 

Also of note:

A large Classic Movie collection featuring films from the silent era through the 1960s
A monthly Senior Activity Day at the Clarence Library in partnership with the Clarence Senior Center
The Clarence Bee Newspaper: Bound volumes (1965-1982) and microfilm (1983-2014)

Flight 3407 Memorial - Designed by Hadley Exhibits and dedicated in October 2017, this informational touch-screen kiosk provides biographies of the loved ones lost in the tragic crash of Flight 3407 that took place in Clarence Center on February 12,  2009 and provides a history of all facets of the tragedy including a tribute to first responders and to the work of family members who have campaigned tirelessly in Washington D.C. to ensure adequate pilot training and have helped bring about improved airline safety and pilot training regulations.

Some Ways to Support the Clarence Library:

The Friends Place Book Store, operated by the Friends of the Clarence Public Library, Inc., is a great place to shop for quality used and donated books and materials.  Proceeds support the programs and services of the Clarence Public Library.

Fowler's Candy Bars are on sale for $2 per bar.

Become a member of the Friends of the Clarence Public Library.

Friends of the Clarence Public Library, Inc.

The Friends of the Clarence Public Library is a non-profit group of citizens who believe that an excellent library is essential to a community.  They work to promote and assist the library and are responsible for raising money to add to the basic collection and provide for special needs.

The Friends of the Clarence Public Library generally meets at the library on the fourth Monday of the month at 6:00 pm.

"The Friends Place" book store, located off the lobby, is a great place to shop for used and donated books and other material.  The book store is scheduled to be open during regular library hours but is staffed entirely by volunteers.  If you're available to help out, please consider filling out an application (pdf) and volunteering your time.

Clarence Public Library Policies

System-Wide Policies

The Clarence Public Library is a member of the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library System.

  • Programs and Services of the Clarence Public Library

    January 2026 (PDF)

    Children’s Programs

    Book Babies 

    Join our librarian, Ana, on Friday mornings, January 16th, 23rd, and 30th, for baby story time! Let's bounce, play, sing, and read together with hands-on books, bubbles, and a short open sensory playtime! For caregivers and their little ones up to 18 months old.*

    Book Babies will start sessions again in late February through March.

    Registration is REQUIRED and begins on January 2nd at 10 am. Register online or call Clarence Public Library at (716) 741-2650 to reserve a spot. Space is limited.

    *For safety concerns, please understand that no child over 18 months may attend this event.

    Talecraft Tuesdays (PDF)

    20 January 2026 at 11:00 AM

    27 January 2026 at 11:00 AM 

    For children ages 3-6 years and their caregivers. We will explore stories and activities to encourage children to develop a love of reading. We sing, read, talk, and craft. Preregistration is required.

    Read&Play (PDF)

    Wednesday 21 January 2026 at 11:00 AM.

    Wednesday 28 January 2026 at 11:00 AM.

    Best for walkers and toddlers (or children between these developmental stages), and their caregivers. Preschool-age children are welcome. Join us for a story and song followed by open play. Preregistration is required.

    Tail Waggin’ Tutors (PDF)

    January 24, 2026, at 10:30-12:00 PM. Registration begins November 1. Therapy dog program. Read to Oakley.

    Intergenerational Programs

    Makery (PDF)

    This is a maker-focused program with a new project each month. At 4:30 PM on Wednesday, January 14, 2025. Registration begins December 29.

    Everyone over the age of six is welcome. Register online or by phone at 716-741-2650. The program will offer the supplies and support to make an authentic creation. This month, we will be making a winter wonderland terrarium (without plants).

    Special Digital Makery (14+): Print + Cut (PDF)

    This is a special Makery for anyone over 14 to learn how to print and cut with the design software Canva and then cut the image with a Cameo Silhouette, which is a die-cutting machine similar to a Cricut. January 22, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Registration begins January 11.

    Puzzle Day

    Challenge yourself (or your group!) with a hands-on creativity sprint. Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 to 2:00 PM. Tackle a puzzle in one sitting: pick something doable but ambitious and push through to the finish. No registration required.

    Teen Programs

    February TeenLit Box

    Find your next three books:

    • Fill out the form, online or at the library between January 2 and 16, at the desk telling us what you like.
    • Visit us to pick up your box at the start of February 2-26. (Clarence Public Library pick-up.)
    • Bring back the 3 books when you are finished.
    • Enjoy the goodies and favors you can keep.

    Adult Programs

    Chair Yoga Series

    Thursdays at 2:00 PM. January 8 and 15th, 2026, will be at 2:00 PM. Registration begins December 22. Instructor Donna Fairlie CYT-200, DJ Gentle Yoga, LLC. Specializing in mobility-challenged.

    Bookmarks

    Next meeting: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 3:00 PM. No registration required.

    Knitting Club

    Next meeting: Thursday, January 20, 2026, at 6:30 PM. No registration required.

    February Programs

    Children’s Programs

    Take Your Child to the Library
    Saturday, February 7, 2026. Open the Activity Table at the Library. There’s no need to register—just stop by and have some fun.

    Bilingual Storytime
    Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Geared toward ages 3 and up. Registration begins January 24. Join us for Jan Brett’s The Mitten in English and El mitón in Spanish. A craft activity will follow.

    Book Babies
    Join librarian Ana on February 27 for baby storytime. Enjoy bouncing, playing, singing, and reading with hands-on books, bubbles, and sensory playtime for caregivers and their little ones up to 18 months. Registration is required starting February 13 at 10:30 AM; call Clarence Public Library at (716) 741-2650 to reserve your spot. Space is limited, and no children over 18 months may attend for safety reasons. Sessions will resume in late February through March.

    Talecraft Tuesday (PDF)
    Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM; Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM; and Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Preregistration is required and begins January 20. For children ages 3–6 and their caregivers. We sing, read, talk, and craft while exploring stories that encourage a love of reading.

    A Special Talecraft: Once Upon a Dance (PDF)
    Dress in your best fairytale magical attire and join us for dancing, crafts, and fun. Intended for children ages 2–6 and their caregivers. February 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM–12:00 PM. Registration begins February 3.

    Read & Play (PDF)
    Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 11:00 AM; Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM; and Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Registration begins January 21. Best for walkers and toddlers and their caregivers; preschool-age children are welcome. Enjoy a story and song followed by open play.

    LEGO Club
    Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 4:00 PM. Registration begins January 21. For children ages 5–12. Registration is required and space is limited. This is a free-form building program, and children can display their creations in the library.

    Very Posh Tiny Heart Tea Party (PDF)
    Craft fun (create fans) and party activities (bingo) with strawberry tea and cakes. For children ages 4–8. February 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM–12:00 PM. Registration begins January 31.

    Tail Waggin’ Tutors Therapy Dog Program
    February 21, 2026, from 10:30 AM–12:00 PM. Registration begins February 7. A therapy dog program where children can read to Oakley.

    Intergenerational Programs

     

    Train Day (PDF)
    Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 10:30 AM–1:30 PM. A family event for train enthusiasts of all ages. Stop by to see a working model and enjoy hands-on fun. No registration required.

    Makery (PDF)
    A maker-focused program with a new project each month. Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 4:30 PM. Registration begins January 28. Open to everyone ages 6 to 100+. Register online or by phone at (716) 741-2650. In February, participants will make Love Bugs and tiny heart fabric wreaths.

    Lunar New Year Craft & Snacks (PDF)
    Drop-In Lunar New Year fun. Wednesday, February 17, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

    Adult Programs

    A Study in Sherlock
    Monday, February 2, 2026, at 6:30 PM. Registration begins January 16. A discussion group exploring the many iterations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes universe. This session focuses on The Lion’s Mane.

    Chair Yoga Series
    Thursdays at 2:00 PM on February 5, 19, and 26, 2026. Registration begins December 22. Instructor Donna Fairlie, CYT-200, DJ Gentle Yoga, LLC, specializing in mobility-challenged participants.

    Introduction to Longevity (PDF)
    Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 6:30 PM. Registration begins January 23. This talk explores what longevity is, current health challenges, and practical, evidence-based approaches to optimizing health span and lifespan. Call (716) 741-2650 to reserve your spot.

    Mindfulness Meditation
    February 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Hosted by the Clarence Public Library and Wat Prodketchettharam America and guided by Phramaha Piya Jundadal. All are welcome; no meditation experience is necessary.

    Lincoln in Buffalo & Western New York (PDF)
    Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Registration begins January 27. Author and Explore Buffalo Master Docent John Fagant presents on The Best of the Bargain: Lincoln in Western New York, focusing on Lincoln’s regional visits and the 1861 Inaugural Train.

    Bookmarks
    Next meeting: Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 3:00 PM. No registration required.

    Knitting Club
    Next meeting: Thursday, February 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM. No registration required.

    Red Cross Blood Drive
    February 24, 2026, from 1:00–6:00 PM. To make an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

     

     

    Borrow from our Library of Things

    Click on the image below for a PDF of the brochure. (Links to the catalog are inside the PDF.)


    Explore our Library of Things — a collection of unique, non-traditional items available for borrowing at Clarence Public Library. From tools to tech, we offer something unexpected for every interest

    How It Works

    ✅ Borrowing Limits: Check out up to 3 kits at a time.
    ✅ Renewals: Each kit can be renewed once (if no holds are pending).
    ✅ Guidelines: Review the full Library of Things Circulation Guidelines and Agreement

     Need help? Contact us: 📞 716-741-2650 


    What is Citizen Science?

    People just like you are contributing to real scientific research! By collecting data, taking photos of clouds or streams, documenting changes in nature, using smartphone sensors to monitor water and air quality, or even playing games to advance health research, you can help scientists make discoveries.

    Citizen Science Kits

    Jumpstart your journey with these fun and impactful projects:

    1. Observing Pollinators 🐝
      Help track bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to protect ecosystems.

    2. Mapping Mosquito Habitats 
      Identify and report mosquito breeding sites to prevent disease spread.

    3. Monitoring Air Quality 🌫️
      Use sensors to measure pollution levels in your community.

    4. Measuring Light at Night 🌃
      Track light pollution and its effects on wildlife and human health.

    5. Exploring Biodiversity 🌿
      Document plant and animal species in your area to support conservation.

    6. Zombee Hunting 🐝
      Help scientists study zombie flies that parasitize honeybees!

    MEMORY/REMINISCE KITS

    Made possible by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo: Daniel C. and Beatrice M. Fisher Fund

    These kits are designed to support caregivers of individuals experiencing cognitive memory impairment, providing engaging and therapeutic interaction.

    How It Works

    • Each Busy Bottle contains sensory items like rice, beads, and buttons.

    • Two laminated cards are included, featuring reminiscence questions and conversation starters.

    • Use the provided dry-erase marker to check off discovered items.

    Safety Note

    ⚠️ Adult use only – Not suitable for children.

    Favorite Things Reminisce - sets include themed photo cards, activity cards and DVD

    Activity Kits:

    Check out our Seed Library!

    Seed Library Brochure(pdf)

    Our seed library offers a wide variety of free seeds to our community. We provide a variety of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds. Families are allowed up to four packets per year.  Seeds have been donated by patrons and seed companies.  Seeds can be donated by completing a donation form and submitting them with the seeds to the circulation desk. 

    Special thanks to the Garden Friends of Clarence for the support of this project.

     

    Seed Library

     

    Introducing the Road to Decode Literacy Hub at the Clarence Public Library

    We now have Decodable Books (PDF) at the Clarence Public Library!

    The Clarence Public Library is partnering with Teach My Kid to Read to provide free access to their Online Literacy Community for resources about early literacy, homeschooling, dyslexia, tutoring, decodables and more!

    Check out the link below to sign up for the FREE "Literacy @ Your Library" online community: 

    https://bit.ly/ClarencePubLib

    To learn more, check out these videos:

    Welcome video

    Tour of the Road to Decode Online Community

    Donation Policy

    Book Donations