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 15 public computers for adults, 2 with flatbed scanners, and 4 public computers for children. Adult computers have internet access and Microsoft Office. 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.

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.
STEAM-to-Go Kits - These kits enrich STEAM activities for educators, parents/guardians, and homeschool families. Kits include Ready, Set Kindergarten, Understanding our Universe, Trucks and Tools, and Biscuit® Phonics.

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! View our selection of gardening books.

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 September long
Stop by and pick up a fall-themed craft. Ages 5-12.

STEM Kits: Mechanical Hand
All September long
Create a mechanical hand by picking up a STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

Family Kidding Around Yoga
Sunday, September 24, 12:30 - 1:15 p.m.
Come and enjoy yoga poses and fun together time with your family. For ages 4-11 with adult participation. 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.

Preschool Storytime
Tuesdays, September 26, 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, September 26, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Friday, September 29, 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 2-3. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Computer Coach
Tuesday, September 26, 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.

Getting the Most out of Ancestry Library Edition
Tuesday, September 26, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
This course covers Ancestry Library Edition, the library version of Ancestry.com. It includes millions of genealogy records. Track your ancestors in US Census records and discover new family members. Unlock foreign origins using immigration records. Discover enlistment records, draft records, and pensions. Ancestry Library Edition is available at all library locations. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

T'ai Chi Chih
Wednesday, September 27, 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. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Erie County Homecare Kit Pickup REGISTRATION IS FULL
Wednesday, September 27, pickup between 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Sign-up to receive a FREE Emergency Homecare Kit, which includes tools and resources to help you prepare your household for a weather emergency. Limited to one kit per family. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Sponsored by the Erie County Live Well Erie program. Open to all Erie County residents.

Lapsit
Friday, September 29, 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.

Plant Care & Repotting Workshop for Kids
Saturday, September 30, 11:00 - 11:45 a.m.
Join Narina and Wesley from Precious Cargo Plant Shop for a fun morning learning about plant care and repotting plants. You will be able to pick your own plant and pot, and repot it to take home. And be sure to name your new green friend! Suitable for ages 5 - 15. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Baubles and Bling Fundraiser
Donate by September 30
Calling all fashionistas! Donate your lightly worn jewelry, purses, wallets, scarves, hats, and accessories to the Lancaster Library's Baubles and Bling Fundraiser. We'll also accept cotton-filled boxes. Donations will be accepted during regular library hours at our information desk. Items will be sold during the Friends of the Library Baubles and Bling Fundraiser on Friday, December 8 and Saturday, December 9. All proceeds will benefit the library. More info to come. Thank you for your support.

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

STEM Kits: Volcano Pumpkins
All October long
Create an exploding volcano pumpkin by picking up a STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

No-carve Pumpkin Decorating Contest
Pumpkin pickup: October 1 - 7
Decorated pumpkin drop-off: By October 20
In-library voting: October 22 - 27 (winners announced 10/27 @ 3:00 p.m.)
Provide your own pumpkin or stop by the library to register and pick up a pumpkin. Each pumpkin must have a library or book theme. Pumpkins will be displayed in the library for voting. Mystery prizes will be awarded. For all ages.

T'ai Chi Chih
Wednesdays, October 4 - 25, 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. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Tech Training: hoopla App
Thursday, October 5, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Learn about the latest streaming app from the library. In this training you will learn how to use hoopla to access digital materials (eBooks, audiobooks, music, tv shows/movies) for free from your own phone, e-reader, or laptop. Please bring your B&ECPL library card, your fully charged device, and any usernames/passwords associated with it. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Bead Art
Thursday, October 5, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Create bead lizards and other creatures. Ages 6 - 12. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

LEGO® Club
Saturday, October 7, 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.

Teen Painting
Saturday, October 7, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Create your own masterpiece with local art teacher Kimberly Strell. Ages 12 - 17. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Dance Party
Monday, October 9, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Dance your heart out! This fun-filled interactive dance-along with dancer/choreographer Cindy Hanna includes movin' and groovin' to upbeat tempos along with contemporary styles reflective to the audience. Registration required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Preschool Storytime
Tuesdays, October 10 - 31, 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
Tuesdays, October 10 - 31, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Thursdays, October 12 -26, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Fridays, October 13 - 27, 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 2-3. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Computer Coach
Tuesdays, October 10, 17, 24 & 31, 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.

Halloween Craft with the Lancaster Youth Bureau
Wednesday, October 11, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Create fun Halloween 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.

Six Meals, One Rotisserie Chicken
Wednesday, October 11, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Liz Bauld, the Storybook Cook, will present six meals from one rotisserie chicken. Generous samples of each item will be shared along with recipes. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Teen Book Box
A fun, personalized collection of books for ages 12 - 17. Fill out a survey to let us know what you like to read. Registration begins Thursday, October 12 (parent/guardian must be present). Pickup your box filled with hand-picked library books and surprises the week of November 5. When you're finished reading, bring back the books and box, but keep the rest.

YA Book Club
Thursday, October 12, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Join us as we discuss The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. Ages 10-14. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Lapsit
Fridays, October 13 - 27, 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.

Quilting Through the Ages
Saturday, October 14, 11:00 - 11:45 a.m.
Theresa Wolfe, Depew historian and local author, will discuss the history of quilting. A variety of quilts will be on display in the library. All ages welcome. Used quilting books will be on sale with all proceeds going to the library. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Paws for Love: Read to a Dog
Saturday, October 14, 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, October 15, 12:30 - 1:15 p.m.
Come and enjoy yoga poses and fun together time with your family. For ages 4-11 with adult participation. 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. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Public Library. Registration begins Sunday, September 24.

Ms. Melissa's Sprouts
Monday, October 16, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
Join Ms. Melissa in helping your little one learn and grow through music. For ages birth - age 6. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Halloween Spooktacular Party
Saturday, October 21, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Stop in for a frightfully good time with games, crafts, and spooky sensory table. Wow Party will present a "Spooky Bubble" Show at 11:30 a.m. For all ages. Don't forget your costume. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

Signs from the Spirit World
Tuesday, October 24, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Explore the powerful impact subtle messages from the spirit world can have an impact on our lives with Judy Hartke. Learn about the ways in which our helpers and departed loved ones are constantly communicating with us, showing us that they are never truly gone, and are offering us guidance, love, and support from beyond the veil. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, September 26.

Editing & Revision Workshop
Wednesday, October 25, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Join author and illustrator Tom Paul Fox for a comprehensive and fun exploration of all that goes into editing and revising your first draft. Learn about plotting and description along with tips on good writing. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, September 27.

MakerSpace
Thursday, October 26, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Join us for hands-on STEM activities. Ages 6 - 12. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, September 28.

Feelings Rock
Saturday, October 28, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
A kids movement and music class 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. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Public Library.

Kidding Around Yoga
Monday, October 30, 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. Halloween costumes welcome too! Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

T'ai Chi Chih
Wednesdays, November 1 - 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 who has been sharing this wonderful practice with students for many years. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, October 18.

Computer Coach
Tuesdays, November 7, 14, 21, & 28, 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. Registration begins Tuesday, October 10.

Paws for Love: Read to a Dog
Saturday, November 11, 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, October 13.

Homeschool LEGO® Club
Thursday, November 16, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
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. 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. Registration begins Saturday, October 7.

LEGO® Club
Saturday, November 18, 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. Registration begins Saturday, October 7.

DIY Body Scrub & Bath Salts
Tuesday, November 28, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Learn how to make your own body scrub and bath salts. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, October 31.

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

Board Info