Lancaster Public Library

Lancaster Public Library
Library Info

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. 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)

    PROGRAMS

    November Happenings (pdf)

    STEM Kits: Popsicle Stick Harmonica (pdf)
    All November long
    Create a popsicle stick harmonica 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)
    Saturday, November 8, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
    Calling all fashionistas! Shop the baubles and bling fundraiser and support the library. Items include necklaces, bracelets, earrings, watches, and rings. Plus, greeting cards will also be for sale. Sale is located in the library. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lancaster Public Library. Proceeds to keep the library open on Sundays.

    November Storytimes (pdf)
    Preschool Time
    Tuesdays, November 18 & 25, 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 18 & 25, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, November 13 & 20, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, November 14 & 21, 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 13 & 20, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, November 14 & 21, 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.

    Toddler Dance Time (pdf)
    Monday, November 10, 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.

    T'ai Chi Chih (pdf)
    Wednesdays, November 12 - 26, 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.

    Thanksgiving Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau (pdf)
    Wednesday, November 12, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create fun Thanksgiving 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.

    Write Your Book & Get It Published (pdf)
    Wednesday, November 12, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
    Do you have a book or story in you? Author & Illustrator Tom Paul Fox will present a free workshop on what goes into writing and publishing books in the digital age. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Homeschool Families Board Games Club (pdf)
    Thursday, November 13, 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.

    Young Adult Book Club (pdf)
    Saturday, November 15, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Join us as we discuss Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo. Ages 13-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Teen Book Boxes (pdf)
    Pickup begins Saturday, November 15
    Teens aged 12-17 can receive a hand-picked box of books, plus surprises! Teens can fill out a survey at the library (parent/guardian must be present at sign-up) and stop back after November 15 to pick up their box. Once finished reading, bring back the book and box, but keep the rest. Registration is required: Register in the library.

    Family Yoga (pdf)
    Sunday, November 16, 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. This program sponsored by the Friends of the Lancaster Library.

    Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Monday, November 17, 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. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Herbal Tea Making Workshop (pdf)
    Wednesday, November 19, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    ***This is a repeat class for those who didn’t get a chance to attend the previous tea program. *** Discover the art of making fresh, flavorful tea using herbs straight from your garden! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to brew delicious herbal teas. Each participant will enjoy fresh tea tastings, take home a few blend ideas, and leave inspired to grow and brew their own! Geared for adults. Registration required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Homeschool LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Thursday, November 20, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
    Join us for a creative 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.

    ID Theft Prevention (pdf)
    Friday, November 21, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
    Join the NYS Division of Consumer Protection to learn how to protect your personal information both online and off. This workshop has important tips on how to protect your identity, your money, and your credit. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, November 22, 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. This program sponsored by the Friends of the Lancaster Library.

    Ms. Melissa's Sprouts (pdf)
    Monday, November 24, 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, November 24, 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.

    Baby Rave (pdf)
    Friday, November 28, 10:30 - 11:00 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. Register by calling 716-683-1120.

    Lil' Kid Rave (pdf)
    Friday, November 28, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.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. Register by calling 716-683-1120.

    Comic Book Club (pdf)
    Saturday, November 29, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Draw your own comics, create shrink art, and bring your Pokémon cards to play or trade with! Ages 8-14. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

     

    December Happenings (pdf)

    Winter Reading Log & Challenge (pdf)
    Monday, December 1, 2025 - Friday, February 20, 2026
    Grab a reading log or reading challenge and read! Once completed, hand in your reading log/challenge for a prize. For kids up to age 17.

    STEM Kits: 3D Sierpinski Triangle Tree (pdf)
    All December long
    Create a 3D Sierpinski Triangle Tree by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

    December Storytimes (pdf)
    Preschool Time
    Tuesdays, December 2 - 16, 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. Registration begins Tuesday, November 18.
    Toddler Time
    Tuesdays, December 2 - 16, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, December 4 - 18, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, December 5 - 19, 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. Registration begins Tuesday, November 18.
    Lapsit
    Thursdays, November 13 & 20, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, November 14 & 21, 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 Tuesday, November 18.

    T'ai Chi Chih (pdf)
    Wednesdays, December 3 - 17, 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. Registration begins Wednesday, November 19.

    Homeschool Families Board Games Club (pdf)
    Thursday, December 4, 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. Registration begins Thursday, November 13.

    Elf on the Shelf Dance Party (pdf)
    Friday, December 5, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
    Move and groove with us for a special dance party with Elf on the Shelf. All ages. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Young Adult Book Club
    Saturday, December 6, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Join us as we discuss Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo. Ages 13-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, November 15.

    Toddler Dance Time (pdf)
    Monday, December 8, 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. Registration begins Monday, November 10.

    Holiday Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau (pdf)
    Wednesday, December 10, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create fun holiday 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. Registration begins Wednesday, November 12.

    Make a Christmas Swag Workshop (pdf)
    Wednesday, December 10, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    Create a beautiful, fragrant Christmas swag to decorate your door or wall this holiday season! In this hands-on class, you’ll design your own festive arrangement using fresh evergreens, pinecones, ribbons, and natural accents. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, November 12.

    Graham Cracker House Workshop (pdf)
    Saturday, December 13, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m. (session 1) and 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (session 2)
    Create a festive graham cracker house. Ages 5-12. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, November 15.

    Ms. Melissa's Sprouts (pdf)
    Monday, December 15, 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, November 24.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog (pdf)
    Monday, December 15, 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. Registration begins Monday, November 24.

    Computer Coach (pdf)
    Tuesdays, December 16 & 23, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, December 4, 11, & 18, 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. Due to the current demand for this program, appointments are limited to once every other month. Registration begins Monday, November 10.

    Homeschool LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Thursday, December 18, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
    Join us for a creative 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. Registration begins Thursday, November 20.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, December 20, 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. This program sponsored by the Friends of the Lancaster Library. Registration begins Saturday, November 22.

    Family Yoga (pdf)
    Sunday, December 21, 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. This program sponsored by the Friends of the Lancaster Library. Registration begins Sunday, November 16.

    Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Monday, December 22, 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. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Monday, November 17.

    LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Saturday, December 27, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m. (session 1) and 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (session 2)
    Join us for a creative 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. Registration begins Saturday, November 29.

    The Joy of Trains (pdf)
    Tuesday, December 30, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
    Join us in the children’s area with an impressive interactive toy train collection with a winter wonderland theme. A family friendly hands-on event. No registration required. 

    Happy "Noon" Year Party (pdf)
    Wednesday, December 31, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Ms. Meg will read a story and then create fun crafts. Join in on a countdown to noon to celebrate the New Year with a glow in the dark dance party. Recommended for ages 7 and under, but older siblings are welcome to join us. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, December 6.

     

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

    Adult Book Club (pdf)
    2nd Tuesday of the month, 7:00 p.m.
    Talk about the book of the month in a welcoming environment. No registration required. Held at the Lancaster Public Library. The Tuesday, November 4 book is The Women by Kristin Hannah.

    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.