Lancaster Public Library

Lancaster Public Library
Library Info

5466 Broadway
Lancaster, NY 14086
United States

716-683-1120
Fax: 716-686-0749
Kara Stock, Director

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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. Download PDF to read the full history of our library . 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(pdf), Lancaster Public Library(pdf), Yearbooks(pdf), WNY(pdf), New York State(pdf), and United States History(pdf). 

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

Read by our beautiful working copper fireplace.

Fireplace at Lancaster Library

Computers
The library has 15 public computers for adults, 2 with flatbed scanners, and 4 public computers for children. Adult computers have internet access and Microsoft Office. 3 laptops are available to check out and use in the library. Computers automatically shut down ten minutes prior to closing.

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 Facility Use application. 

Book Donations(pdf) 
The library will accept two medium size bags of donations. Books, DVDs, CDs, and puzzles are all accepted.  Items must be in very good condition.

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. Download PDF of Membership form or get one inside the library. Read their By-laws(pdf), Conflict of Interest Policy(pdf), and their 2023 Annual Report(pdf).

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(pdf) 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.

  • Lancaster Public Library

    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.

    Seed Library (pdf)
    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 6 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 (pdf) 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! View our selection of gardening books (pdf).

    Yard Games (pdf)

    Tax Forms (pdf)
    2024 State and Federal tax forms are available in the parking lot lobby.

    PROGRAMS

    April Happenings

    STEM Kits: Peep Parachutes (pdf)
    All April long
    Make a parachute or a Peep by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

    Teen Book Box (pdf)
    Box pickup begins April 13
    Teens age 12-17 can receive a hand-picked box with books and other fun surprises. Fill out a survey at the library and let us know what you like to read (parent/guardian must be present at sign-up). Pickup your box the week of April 13 and when you've finished reading, return the books and the box, but keep the rest.

    Storytimes (pdf)
    Preschool Time
    Tuesdays, April 29 - May 20, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and sings songs. For ages 3-5. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.
    Toddler Time
    Tuesdays, April 29 - May 20, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, May 1 - 22, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, May 2- 23, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Join Miss Meg as she reads stories, has bubbles, and sings songs. For ages 2-3. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.
    Lapsit
    Thursdays, May 1 - 22, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, May 2- 23, 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.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, April 26, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
    Feelings Rock is a kids' music and movement class that is geared for infants through age 5. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Ms. Melissa's Sprouts (pdf)
    Monday, April 28, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
    Join Ms. Melissa in helping your little one learn and grow through music. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog (pdf)
    Monday, April 28, 4:30 - 5:30 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.

    Libby App (pdf)
    Tuesday, April 29, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Want to learn how to borrow eBooks from the library? In this training you will learn how to use Libby to access digital materials for free from your own phone, tablet, e-reader, or laptop. Please bring your B&ECPL library card, your fully charged device, and any usernames and passwords associated with it. Ages 17 and up. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    T'ai Chi Chih (pdf)
    Wednesday, April 30, 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 who has been sharing this wonderful practice with students for many years. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    The Birds Around Us (pdf)
    Tuesday, April 29, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
    Learn about the birds that visit our backyards in Western New York. Presented by Naturalist Mark Carra. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Seed Starting (pdf)
    Wednesday, April 30, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    Learn how to start your own vegetable plants indoors. All supplies provided. Geared for adults. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

     

    May Happenings

    STEM Kits: No Sew "Mini" Sun Pillow (pdf)
    All May long
    Make a mini sun pillow without sewing by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

    Tiny Art Show (pdf)
    Art kit pickup: May 1-7
    Drop off art by Saturday, May 18
    Art show: May 19-31
    Create a tiny piece of art and display it in the library. For all ages. Stop by the library & pick up your free tiny art kit (while supplies last). All entries will be submitted in a drawing to win an art supply set.

    Homeschool Families Board Games Club (pdf)
    Thursday, May 1, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
    Is it possible to learn and have fun at the same time? Absolutely! Each month, join other homeschoolers in playing different board games! Games will be provided, but patrons may bring their own from home if they choose. For children pre-K - High School. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Comic Book Club (pdf)
    Saturday, May 3, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Pokémon Day! Come and discuss, trade, and play Pokémon. Create Fuse Bead art too! Ages 8-11. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Computer Coach (pdf)
    Tuesdays, May 6, 13, 20, & 27, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, May 8, 15, & 22, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    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 & cell phone 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 (pdf)
    Wednesdays, May 7 -28, 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 who has been sharing this wonderful practice with students for many years. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Mother's Day Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau (pdf)
    Wednesday, May 7, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create fun crafts for Mother's Day 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.

    Local Author Talk: Gary Earl Ross (pdf)
    Wednesday, May 7, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
    Celebrate National Mystery Month with author Gary Earl Ross, winner of the 2006 Edgar Allan Poe Award! Mr. Ross will discuss his mystery series that takes place right here in Buffalo. Books will be available to purchase, and a book signing will follow the presentation. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Erie County Senior Services Focus Group (pdf)
    Friday, May 9, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    The Erie County Senior Services will hold a focus group for you to talk to them about your community. Housing, transportation, community services, medical services, finances & more will be discussed. No registration required. Snacks and drinks will be provided!

    Young Adult Book Club
    Saturday, May 10, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Join us as we discuss The Hunger Games from Suzanne Collins. Ages 13-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Toddler Dance Time (pdf)
    Monday, May 12, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
    Imaginative improvisational play with stories, songs, and games that encourage creativity and build self-esteem and confidence. For kids ages 18 months - 3 years. Presented by the Buffalo Dance Center. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Homeschool LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Thursday, May 15, 1:00 - 1:30 p.m.
    Come and create with LEGOS®. Each month we'll have a theme to build your own creation to be displayed in the library. No need to bring your bricks, just bring your imagination and create. Ages 5-17. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    ART-Y Time (pdf)
    Thursday, May 15, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
    Tap into your artistic side! Create your own masterpiece with Kimberly Strell, a local art teacher. Supplies are provided. This is a free program for adults, but registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Saturday, May 17, 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: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Local Author Talk: Nicole Shields (pdf)
    Saturday, May 17, 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
    Local author and Mental Health & Recovery Advocate Nicole Shields will discuss her new book Beyond 25: A Life I Never Imagined, a personal story about mental health, resilience, recovery, and self-discovery. Nicole will share impactful moments from the book, discuss mental health and peer support, lead a guided journal reflection activity, and end with a Q&A and book signing. Geared for adults and young adults. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Chicken BBQ (pdf)
    Sunday, May 18, 11:30 a.m. until sold out
    The Friends of the Lancaster Public Library invite you to a chicken BBQ. Take out only. BW's Barbecue Chicken Dinner $17 (cash or check). Location: Parking lot behind the library. Chicken dinner includes potato salad, coleslaw, roll with butter, and a cookie. Proceeds will help keep the library open during Sundays during the school year.

    Family Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Sunday, May 18, 12:30 - 1:15 p.m.
    Come and enjoy yoga poses and experience some fun together time with your family. For ages 4-11 with adult participation. Class is taught by Donna Baia, certified KAY teacher. Please 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.

    Ms. Melissa's Sprouts (pdf)
    Monday, May 19, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
    Join Ms. Melissa in helping your little one learn and grow through music. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Monday, April 28.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog (pdf)
    Monday, May 19, 4:30 - 5:30 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 Monday, April 28.

    Entertaining on Your Deck or Patio (pdf)
    Thursday, May 22, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
    Culinary Instructor Liz Bauld will prepare recipes for you and your guests to enjoy on your patio or deck this summer. Samples will be served and recipes will be shared. This is a free program for adults, but registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, May 24, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
    Feelings Rock is a kids' music and movement class that is geared for infants through age 5. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, April 26.

    Soap Making (pdf)
    Wednesday, May 28, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
    Learn how to make a spring soap. This is a free program for adults, but registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, April 30.

    Tips for Tough Conversations (pdf)
    Thursday, May 29, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    This course gives caregivers tips and strategies for having difficult — but important — conversations about driving, visiting the doctor and legal and financial planning. Presented by the Alzheimer's Association. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, May 1.

    Baby Rave (pdf)
    Friday, May 30, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.
    Bring your baby or toddler and enjoy some EDM remixes of classic children's songs and dance, dance, dance with your child. Bring your own flashlights, water bottles, and costumes. Glowsticks will be provided. Caution: There will be flashing lights and loud-ish music. Registration is required and space is limited. Registration required: call 716-683-1120 or stop into the library. Registration begins Friday, May 3.

    Lil' Kid Rave (pdf)
    Friday, May 30, 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
    Bring your 3–5-year-old and enjoy some EDM remixes of classic children's songs and dance, dance, dance with your child. Bring your own flashlights, water bottles, and costumes. Glowsticks will be provided. Caution: There will be flashing lights and loud-ish music. Registration required: call 716-683-1120 or stop into the library. Registration begins Friday, May 3.

    Family Storytime with Local Author Amber Partisano (pdf)
    Saturday, May 31, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
    Join us for a special family story time with local author Amber Partisano. She will read her book Our Fox Rocks and have a fun fox inspired craft for all. For all ages. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, May 3.

    Jewelry Donations
    Donations accepted April 1 - August 31
    Donate your lightly worn jewelry to the Friends of the Lancaster Library Baubles and Bling fundraiser. Cotton-filled boxes also accepted. The fundraiser will be held Friday, November 8 and Saturday, November 9. All proceeds will benefit the library.

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

    Individuals in need of an accommodation for any of the above programs may contact the ADA Coordinator at access@buffalolib.org within 7 days of the program.