Lancaster Public Library

Library Info

5466 Broadway
Lancaster, NY 14086
United States

Fax: 716-686-0749

Kara Stock, Director

Located in the heart of the historic village of Lancaster on Broadway (Route 20) east of Central Avenue. Recently expanded parking lot available behind the library off of School Street. Wheelchair accessible. Visiting us for the first time? Take a tour using our social narrative.

Entrances

The library has two accessible entrances, a walkable one on 5466 Broadway and a parking lot entrance behind the library off of School Street.

Bike Racks

The library has a bike rack located at the Broadway entrance and one located in the parking lot behind the library. Bikes should always be securely locked.

What’s Special about the Lancaster Public Library

Lancaster’s first library was organized in 1821 by veterans of the Revolution and the War of 1812. Read the full history of our library here. The current building was completed in 1975 and houses approximately 60,000 volumes including a large selection of children’s picture books. Special collections available to borrow include: local history, large print, graphic novels and manga, biographies, classic movies, a range of TV series and a Seed Library.

We also have a large non-circulating local history collection. Materials include: Lancaster & Depew, Lancaster Public Library, Yearbooks, WNY, New York State, and United States History.

Interested in visiting with your school or group? Drop off a completed Group Visit Request Form.

Read by our beautiful working copper fireplace.

Fireplace at Lancaster Library

Computers

The library has 19 public computers for adults, 2 with flatbed scanners, and 4 public computers for children. Adult computers have internet access and Microsoft Office 2016. 6 laptops are available to check out and use in the library.

Printing is 10 cents black and white per page, 25 cents color per page.

WiFi is also available throughout the library.

We now offer Mobile Printing from your phone or other devices.

Copy Machine

Black and white copies only. 15 cents per page for 8 ½ x 11, 30 cents per page for 8 ½ x 14.

Meeting Room

Please contact the library to inquire about availability and submit a completed application.

Donated Book Guidelines

Please read our guidelines before dropping off donations. Up to two (2) medium sized boxes or bags will be accepted once per day.

Sustainability

The Lancaster Public Library is committed to reducing the Library’s impact on the environment and modeling green practices for our community. The Library is a member of the Sustainable Libraries Initiative and is working to become certified sustainable. The Sustainable Libraries Certification Program encourages libraries to integrate the principles of triple bottom line sustainability – environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically feasible practices – into their policies and actions.

Friends of the Lancaster Library

The mission of the Friends of the Lancaster Library is to provide funding for Sunday hours. They are a 501(c)(3) organization. Membership forms are available here and inside the library. Read their By-laws, Conflict of Interest Policy, and their 2022 Annual Report.

Memorial Book Dedications

Honor your loved one. Dedicate a book to the Lancaster community in their memory. A brand new book will be added to our adult or children’s collection and a bookplate will be inserted celebrating the life of your loved one. Complete our form and return it to the library.

Lancaster Public Library Policies

System-Wide Policies

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

What’s Happening

Kits
We have a variety of kits available for a 7-day loan. Kits must be returned to the Lancaster Library information desk during open hours.

Citizen Science Kits - A citizen science kit holds everything needed to gather data for a specific citizen science project. Borrow Exploring Biodiversity, Firefly Watch, Lost Ladybug Project, Mapping Mosquito Habitats, Measuring Light in the Night, Monitoring Air Quality, Observing Pollinators, Project Squirrel, and ZomBee Hunting.
Empire Pass - An empire pass permits free vehicle access to New York State parks. Visit places such as Beaver Island, Niagara Falls, Letchworth, and more.
Garden Tools - Helpful tools to help you plant, grow, and harvest. Tools include pruners, trowels, hand seeders, cultivators, and more.
Learning Kits - Borrow adult coloring, birdwatching, hiking, family gardening, advanced gardening, butterfly watching, and fishing rods.
Literacy Kits - Borrow The Hungry Little Caterpillar, letters, colors & shapes, knitting & crocheting, fairy tales STEM, numbers, handwriting, and phonics.
Memory Kits - These kits feature a variety of items to inspire memories, discussion, and interaction with people experiencing memory loss. Themes: animals, movies/ tv, history, and games.

Seed Library
Our seed library provides free seeds for our community to grow and share. We have a variety of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds. Patrons/ families are allowed up to 4 seed packets per year. Seeds have been donated by patrons and seed companies. Seeds can be donated to our library by completing a donation form and bringing the form and seeds to the information desk. It's our goal for the library to promote gardening, seed saving, and seed sharing. Happy gardening!

Tax Forms
Federal and state forms are available in the downstairs lobby.

Yard Games
We have several yard games available for a 7-day loan. Borrow Corn Hole, Giant Jenga, Ring Toss, Bocce, Lawn Darts, Croquet, or Kan Jam for your next party! Yard games must be returned to the Lancaster Library information desk during open hours.

PROGRAMS

Craft and Carry
All March long
Stop by and pick up a winter-themed craft. Ages 5-12.

STEM Kits: Paper Plate Pinball Challenge
All March long
Create a paper plate pinball challenge by picking up a STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

Comic Book Club
Saturday, March 25, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Comic book club is the place for kids who love to read, write, and learn about new comics and graphic novels. This month we'll create comic book planters. For ages 8-14. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Ms. Melissa's Sprouts
Monday, March 27, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
Join Ms. Melissa in helping your little one learn and grow through music. For kids up to age 6. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Tech Training: hoopla App
Monday, March 27, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Learn about the newest streaming app from the library. In this training you will learn how to use hoopla to access digital materials from your phone, tablet, e-reader, or laptop. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Please bring your B&ECPL library card, your fully charged device, and any usernames and passwords associated with it.

Preschool Storytime
Tuesday, March 28, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and hands out a craft to make at home. For ages 3-5. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Toddler Time
Tuesday, March 28, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Fridays, March 24 & 31, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and hands out a craft to make at home. For ages 3-5. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Computer Coach
Tuesday, March 28, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
Need a computer coach? We can help. A staff member can assist you with computer related topics in a one-on-one session. These free sessions are not designed to troubleshoot computer problems or repair hardware. Suggested topics: Tablet devices, borrowing eBooks/ Libby & hoopla apps, Microsoft Office, scanning, computer basics, internet searching, online library catalog, or email attachments. Please call 716-683-1120 or stop in to schedule your appointment.

T'ai Chi Chih
Wednesdays, March 29, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
T'ai Chi Chih movements are practiced softly with no impact. No particular level of physical fitness, coordination, special clothing, or equipment required. Denise Miller is an accredited teacher wo has been sharing this wonderful practice with students for many years. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Author Talk & Book Signing
Wednesday, March 29, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Meet local author Iryna Colvin-Spencer and learn about her newest book, Zora's Travels. Share the adventures of Zora the Shih Tzu as she travels across the country with her humans. Enjoy this great adventure travel book from a dog's perspective. all ages welcome. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Lapsit
Friday, March 31, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and sings songs. For ages 3-23 months. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Craft and Carry
All April long
Stop by and pick up a winter-themed craft. Ages 5-12.

STEM Kits: Peep Slime
All April long
Create peep slime by picking up a STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

Kidding Around Yoga
Monday, April 3, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Come and enjoy yoga poses, fun music, storytelling, yoga games, and a very special guided relaxation time. For ages 3-6. Bring a yoga mat or towel. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Joy of Trains
Monday, April 3, 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Dean Hunneshagen presents Black Panther: Wakanda Forever superhero trains adventure. A family friendly hands-on event. No registration required.

Family Storytime
Tuesday, April 4, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m. (session 1) & 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (session 2)
Ms. Meg will read stories, sing songs, make crafts, and have bubbles. Recommended for ages 6 and under, older siblings welcome. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Bookmobile: Library on Wheels
Tuesday, April 4, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
The Bookmobile will be at our library for a special visit to celebrate National Library Week. Stop in and check out a book!

Anime/Manga Workshop
Wednesday, April 5, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Join us for a FREE Manga art workshop (focus on bodies and faces) presented by award-winning picture book cartoonist Tom Paul Fox. Ages 8-14. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Easter Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau
Wednesday, April 5, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Create fun Easter crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau. For ages 5-12. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Terrarium Workshop
Thursday, April 6, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Looking for a unique hands-on experience for kids? The Botanical Gardens presents a terrarium workshop for children. Each child will learn about what plants need to grow and discover the workings of the water cycle while creating the perfect habitat for a tropical plant. This mini ecosystem is fun to create, easy to care for and transport home. Ages 6-12. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

LEGO® Club
Saturday, April 8, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m. (session 1) & 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (session 2)
Join us for a 30-minute LEGO® Club. Each month we will have a theme to build your own creation to be displayed in the library. Children will have their own set of bricks. Ages 6-12. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Computer Coach
Tuesdays, April 11, 18 & 25, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
Need a computer coach? We can help. A staff member can assist you with computer related topics in a one-on-one session. These free sessions are not designed to troubleshoot computer problems or repair hardware. Suggested topics: Tablet devices, borrowing eBooks/ Libby & hoopla apps, Microsoft Office, scanning, computer basics, internet searching, online library catalog, or email attachments. Please call 716-683-1120 or stop in to schedule your appointment.

YA Book Club
Thursday, April 13, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Join us as we discuss Cinder by Marissa Meyer. For ages 10-14. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Donated Book & Baked Goods Sale
Saturday, April 15, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
$10 a bag. Baked goods until sold out. Bags will be provided.
Sunday, April 16, 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
$5 a bag. Bags will be provided.
Monday, April 17, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Everything leftover is free! Bring your own bag.
Individual items: $1.00 hardcovers & media, 50¢ paperbacks and children's books, $1.00 puzzles
Sponsored by the Friends of the Lancaster Public Library and the Lancaster Women's Civic Club

Preschool Storytime
Tuesdays, April 18 & 25, May 2, 9, 16, & 23, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and hands out a craft to make at home. For ages 3-5. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, March 28.

Toddler Time
Tuesdays, April 18 & 25, May 2, 9, 16, & 23, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Fridays, April 21 & 28, May 5, 21, 16, & 26, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and hands out a craft to make at home. For ages 3-5. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, March 28 for Tuesday sessions and Friday, March 31 for Friday sessions.

T'ai Chi Chih
Wednesdays, April 19 - May 31, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
T'ai Chi Chih movements are practiced softly with no impact. No particular level of physical fitness, coordination, special clothing, or equipment required. Denise Miller is an accredited teacher wo has been sharing this wonderful practice with students for many years. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration is for all 7 sessions and begins Wednesday, March 29.

Eco-Friendly Gardening
Wednesday, April 19, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Learn how to garden without harming the environment. This program covers lawn care, perennial gardening, soil, and composting. Presented by Master Gardener Lyn Chimera. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Tech Training: Canva
Thursday, April 20, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Students will learn how to use Canva, a free graphic design tool. Discover how to design promotional materials such as flyers, brochures, and social media posts. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Please bring your email address and a password to be able to create a free Canva account. Registration begins Monday, March 27.

Lapsit
Fridays, April 21 & 28, May 5, 21, 16, & 26, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and sings songs. For ages 3-23 months. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Friday, March 31.

Earth Day Craft and Plant
Saturday, April 22, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Learn about Earth Day and create crafts using recycled materials. Then help us plant seeds for our new pollinator garden. Ages 5-12. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, April 1.

Ms. Melissa's Sprouts
Monday, April 24, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
Join Ms. Melissa in helping your little one learn and grow through music. For kids up to age 6. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Monday, March 27.

Secret Places of WNY: 25 Secret Hikes
Wednesday, April 26, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Local authors Jennifer Hillman and William McKeever will discuss secret and scenic day hikes within a day's drive of Buffalo and Niagara Falls. These outdoor adventures appeal to a wide range of abilities, with most hikes accessible for the whole family. Book signing to follow. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Feelings Rock
Thursday, April 27, 10:45 - 11:15 a.m.
Feelings Rock is a kids' music and movement class that is geared for infants through age 5. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, April 6.

Paws for Love: Read to a Dog
Saturday, April 29, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Pick out a book and practice reading out loud to a therapy dog in the library. Improve literacy skills and reading confidence! For ages 4 and up. Call 716-683-1120 or stop in to sign-up for a 15-minute reading session.

Family Kidding Around Yoga
Sunday, April 30, 1:00 - 1:45 p.m.
A new kids' yoga class! Come and enjoy yoga poses, fun music, mindfulness, and a very special guided relaxation time. For ages 4-11 with adult participation. Bring a yoga mat or towel. Class is taught by Donna Baia, certified KAY teacher. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Sunday, March 26.

Prom Attire Drive
Through Sunday, April 30
Help local youth attend their prom. We will be collecting prom attire items at the front desk up until Sunday, April 30. Donate your clean, new or gently used prom/formal attire to help teens have a night to remember. Please call 716-683-1120 for more information on what to donate. Teens ages 14-19 can come in for one free prom outfit on Saturday, May 20, from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. No registration required.

Write Your Book & Get it Published
Wednesday, May 3, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Find out what it takes to get your manuscript published in the digital age. Topics covered: publishers versus. self-publishing, eBooks versus paperbacks, editing, cover design, formatting, and artwork. Presented by local author and illustrator Tom Paul Fox. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, March 29.

Family/Caregiver Support
Thursday, May 4, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Learn about care, support, and resources available in our community for individuals and loved ones faced with serious illness. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, March 30.

The Business of Music Workshop
Saturday, May 6, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Learn all about copyright, setting up a music business, managing your band, and getting paid for your work. Presented by the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame and Three2Go Music Alliance. No registration required.

Paws for Love: Read to a Dog
Saturday, May 27, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Pick out a book and practice reading out loud to a therapy dog in the library. Improve literacy skills and reading confidence! For ages 4 and up. Call 716-683-1120 or stop in to sign-up for a 15-minute reading session. Registration begins Friday, April 28.

Free Math Help
Tuesdays, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
NYS certified math teacher Catherine Thielmann will be available at the library by appointment. For grades 2-9. Sign-up for a free 20-minute appointment at the information desk or call 716-683-1120.

Mahjong Club
Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Play the Chinese version of Mahjong. No registration necessary.

Board Info

Lancaster Public Library Board Info

Annual Report

2021 Annual Report

Public Health Emergency Operations Plan

Board of Trustees

Gary Howell, President
Jan Yarborough, Vice President
Kenneth Graber, Treasurer
Kristyn Wind, Secretary
Suzanne Jacobs
Barbara Tamol

The Lancaster Public Library Board of Trustees meets the second Thursday of the month at 4:15 p.m. in the Lancaster Public Library's Community Room. March 2023 meeting has been rescheduled for Thursday, March 16 at 4:15 p.m.