Lancaster Public Library

Lancaster Public Library

5466 Broadway
Lancaster, NY 14086
United States

716-683-1120
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. A parking lot is 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). 

Visit our digital collection on the New York State Heritage website.

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

Book Donations (pdf)
The library will accept up to two (2) grocery-sized bags of books, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles, but they must be in excellent condition.

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. 

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 2025 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 5 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)

    Bike Locks (pdf)

    PROGRAMS

    October Happenings (pdf)

    STEM Kits: Bone bridge challenge (pdf)
    All October long
    Create a bridge out of "bones" by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

    No-carve Pumpkin Decorating Contest (pdf)
    In-library voting: Now through Sunday, October 25
    Decorated pumpkins with a library/book theme are displayed in the library for voting. Vote for your favorite ones! Halloween LEGO® prizes will be awarded to 3 winners on Sunday, October 25 at 3:00 p.m. 

    October Storytimes (pdf)
    Toddler Time
    Friday, October 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
    Friday, October 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.

    Community Scanning Day (pdf)
    Saturday, October 24, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
    Do you have old photographs, letters, family memorabilia or historic documents? The Library can help you preserve and digitize them! Bring a few (15 or less) items (letters and documents, photos, art and posters up to 18"x24") to the Community Scanning Day, and staff will digitize them for you! You’ll be provided a thumb drive with images of your items. Want to share your historic items with your community and contribute to a public history archive? Donate a digital copy of your items to the Erie County Community Archive. No cost and no registration required.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, October 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.

    1901 Buffalo: Birthplace of a New Presidency (pdf)
    Saturday, October 24, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
    Why did Theodore Roosevelt become president in Buffalo? And why in September? This program describes the circumstances of William McKinley’s assassination and Theodore Roosevelt’s 1901 inauguration in Buffalo, NY, and explains the context surrounding this unique event. Presented by Mark Lozo, TR Site Education Director. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Monday, October 26, 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. Register below or call 716-683-1120. Class is taught by Donna Baia, certified KAY teacher. Please bring a yoga mat or towel. Parent/caregiver must stay with their child. 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, October 26, 4:30 - 5:50 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 20-minute reading session.

    Investigating the Paranormal (pdf)
    Tuesday, October 27, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    Learn about the cheap, low tech and traditional methods that have been field tested for many years. Then learn about the new school tools such as hacked radio, laser grid photography, filter boxes and much more! Presented by Tim Shaw, Psychic Medium and Paranormal Investigator. Geared for adults. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    T'ai Chi Chih (pdf)
    Wednesday, October 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.

    Halloween Party (pdf)
    Saturday, October 31, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
    Stop in for a frightfully good time with games, crafts, and a spooky sensory table. Don't forget your costume! All ages. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Mixed Media & Collage (pdf)
    Wednesday, October 28, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    In this hands-on class, you’ll layer papers, paint, textures, and found materials to create one-of-a-kind art pieces. We’ll experiment with color, composition, and personal expression. Leave with artwork that tells your own story. This program is for adults and registration is required. Register by calling 716-683-1120 or stopping into the library (no online registration).

     

    November Happenings (pdf)

    STEM Kits: Mayflower Sailboat Challenge (pdf)
    All November long
    Create and sail a sailboat by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

    Baubles and Bling Fundraiser (pdf)
    Thursday, November 5, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
    Friday, November 6, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
    Saturday, November 7, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
    Shop the Friends of the Lancaster Library’s fundraiser and support the library. Items include necklaces, bracelets, earrings, watches, rings, and greeting cards. Sale is located in the library. Cash only. Proceeds to keep the library open on Sundays during the school year.

    November Storytimes (pdf) 
    Preschool Time
    Tuesdays, November 10 & 17, 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, November 10 & 17, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, November 12 & 19, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, November 13 & 20, 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, November 12 & 19, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, November 13 & 20, 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.

    T'ai Chi Chih (pdf)
    Wednesdays, November 4, 18, & 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. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Young Adult Book Club (pdf)
    Saturday, November 7, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Join us as we discuss So This Is Ever After by F.T. Lukens. Ages 12-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Computer Coach (pdf)
    Tuesdays, November 10, 17, & 24, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, November 5, 12, & 19, 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 on Libby, Microsoft Office, scanning, computer basics, internet searching, online library catalog, or email attachments. Please call 716-683-1120 or stop in to schedule an appointment. Due to the current demand for this program, appointments are limited to once every other month.

    Chess Club (pdf)
    Tuesday, November 10, 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
    Learn how to play chess or improve your skills. Hosted by the Buffalo Chess Association. Boards are provided or bring your own. All ages welcome. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Homeschool Families Board Games Club (pdf)
    Thursday, November 12, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
    Learn and have fun at the same time! A variety of games will be provided. The game topic for this month is life and social skills. Pre-K through high school. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    ART-Y Time (pdf)
    Thursday, November 12,  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 by stopping into the library or call 716-683-1120. 

    LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Saturday, November 14, 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Come and create with LEGO® bricks. 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 6-12. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Holiday Countdown Sign Craft (pdf)
    Tuesday, November 17, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
    Create a holiday chalk countdown sign using decoupage and stamps. This is a free program for adults, but registration is required. Register at the library or call 716-683-1120. 

    Thanksgiving Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau (pdf)
    Wednesday, November 18, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create fun 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.

    Magnesium Lotion (pdf)
    Wednesday, November 18, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    Create a soothing magnesium lotion designed to promote relaxation and a restful sleep — perfect for winding down as the year closes. This program is for adults and registration is required. Register by calling 716-683-1120 or stopping into the library. Registration begins Wednesday, October 28.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, November 21, 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, October 24.

    Family Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Sunday, November 22, 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.

    Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Monday, November 23, 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. Register below or call 716-683-1120. Class is taught by Donna Baia, certified KAY teacher. Please bring a yoga mat or towel. Parent/caregiver must stay with their child. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Monday, October 26.

    Pokémon Club (pdf)
    Friday, November 27, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Discuss, trade, and play Pokémon. Create Pokémon shrink art and design your own Manga too. Ages 8 - 14. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Friday, October 30.

    Family Storytime (pdf)
    Saturday, November 28, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Ms. Meg will read stories, have bubbles, and sing songs. For ages 6 and under, older siblings are welcome to join. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, November 7.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog (pdf)
    Monday, November 30, 4:30 - 5:50 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 into the library to sign-up for a 20-minute reading session. Registration begins Monday, October 26.

    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.