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. 

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): State and federal forms (except the 1040) are available in the parking lot lobby.

    PROGRAMS

    Winter Reading Raffle: 4 BIG prizes (pdf)
    Now - Friday, February 20, 2026
    Check out books to win! Kids 12 and under receive 1 raffle ticket for every 5 print books checked out. Teens 13-17 receive 1 raffle ticket for every 3 print books checked out. Prizes include stuffed animals, a vending machine, magna-tiles, and a truck & road rug. Bring your checkout receipt to the desk to receive a ticket. Prizes are funded by contributions from our generous donors.

    Winter Reading Log & Challenge (pdf)
    Now - 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.

     

    February Happenings (pdf)

    STEM Kits: Cupid's Catapult (pdf)
    All February long
    Create Cupid's Catapult by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

    February Storytimes (pdf)
    Preschool Time
    Tuesdays, February 3 - 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, February 3 - 17, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, February 5 - 19 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, February 6 - 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, February 5 - 19, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, February 6 - 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.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog (pdf)
    Monday, February 2, 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.

    Computer Coach (pdf)
    Tuesdays, February 3, 10, 17, & 24, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, February 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/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.

    Homeschool Families Board Games Club (pdf)
    Thursday, February 5, 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 and parents are welcome. The game topic of the month is math. For students in pre-K - High School. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Local Author Visit: What am I? The Winter Games (pdf)
    Saturday, February 7, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
    Local author/staff member John Benzee will read his newest book, What am I? The Winter Games, an interactive riddle book about the sports of the Winter Olympics. Come ready to guess all the events that the Winter Olympics offers. Then, kids can make their own skis or snowboards to decorate, wear, and take home. All ages/families welcome. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Toddler Dance Time (pdf)
    Monday, February 9, 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.

    Valentine Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau (pdf)
    Wednesday, February 11, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create fun Valentine's Day 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.

    Vibrant Strings (pdf)
    Thursday, February 12, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    A Buffalo-based sibling trio will perform all genres of music on their violins. Prepare to be captivated by their unique sound! All ages are welcome. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Homeschool LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Thursday, February 12, 1:00 - 2:00 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 5-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Young Adult Book Club (pdf)
    Saturday, February 14, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Join us as we discuss We Were Liars by E. Lockhart. Ages 13-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Kung Fu Basics (pdf)
    Tuesday, February 17, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. 
    Learn Kung Fu basics taught by Arts for Learning WNY. Ages 5-13. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Writing Historical Fiction (pdf)
    Tuesday, February 17, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
    Are you interested in creating fiction based on historical figures or events? We will focus on Western New York subjects and talk about how to access and best utilize those sources. We’ll also touch on giving it life to avoid it being a dull, dry story. Presented by author Thomas Schobert. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Winter Magic Show (pdf)
    Wednesday, February 18, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. 
    Magician Cris Johnson presents a spectacular winter magic show. All ages. Registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Paleo Art (pdf)
    Thursday, February 19, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. 
    Create paleo art with Penn Dixie Fossil Park. Ages 6-12. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Zoo" Tails" with the Buffalo Zoo (pdf)
    Thursday, February 19, 1:00 - 1:30 p.m. (session 1) and 2:00 - 2:30 p.m. (session 2)
    Enjoy stories with our favorite animal friends. For kids of all ages. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Saturday, February 21, 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.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog (pdf)
    Monday, February 23, 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.

    Mammals of WNY (pdf)
    Tuesday, February 24, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    Get to know your fur-bearing neighbors as we explore the lives of mammals who call Western New York home. Investigate adaptations, learn to identify tracks and scat, and get hands-on experience with a variety of pelts. Presented by WildWood WNY.  Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    No-Bake Healthy Treats (pdf)
    Wednesday, February 25, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    Join us for a cozy, hands-on session making no-bake treats with real, healthy ingredients. Sweet, simple, and satisfying—perfect for mindful snacking. Adults only. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, February 28, 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.

     

    March Happenings (pdf)

    STEM Kits: Crystal Shamrock (pdf)
    All March long
    Create a crystal shamrock by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last.

    Literary Peep Show Contest (pdf)
    Diorama kit pick-up: Sunday, March 8 - Saturday, March 14
    Completed diorama drop off: by Saturday, March 21
    In-library voting: Sunday, March 22 - Saturday, March 28
    The library invites you to create and bring in a family friendly literary-themed, peep diorama. Create a scene from your favorite book! Stop by the front desk to register and pick up a diorama kit. While supplies last. All ages welcome to participate. 3 ‘Peep’les Choice Winners will be announced on Sunday, March 29 at 3:00 pm. LEGO® prizes will be awarded! 

    March Storytimes (pdf)
    Preschool Time
    Tuesdays, March 3 - 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, March 3 - 17, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, March 5 - 19 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, March 6 - 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, March 5 - 19, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, March 6 - 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.

    Ms. Melissa's Sprouts (pdf)
    Monday, March 2, 11:00 - 11:30 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.

    Homeschool Families Board Games Club (pdf)
    Thursday, March 5, 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 and parents are welcome. The game topic of the month is math. For students in pre-K - High School. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, February 5.

    Pokémon Club (pdf)
    Saturday, March 7, 11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
    Discuss, trade, and play Pokémon. Kids are encouraged to bring their own cards if they would like! Create a Pokémon planter too. Ages 8 - 14. Registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, February 7.

    Toddler Dance Time (pdf)
    Monday, March 9, 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, February 9.

    Computer Coach (pdf)
    Tuesdays, March 10, 17, 24, & 31, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, March 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/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 Tuesday, February 3.

    Young Adult Book Club (pdf)
    Saturday, March 14, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Join us as we discuss a book TBD. Ages 13-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, February 14.

    Macrame Keychain (pdf)
    Saturday, March 14, 1:00 - 2:15 p.m.
    Create a simple macrame keychain with a wooden bead. This program is for adults and registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, February 14.

    St. Patrick's Day Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau (pdf)
    Wednesday, March 18, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create fun St. Patrick's Day 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. Wednesday, February 11.

    Homeschool LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Thursday, March 19, 1:00 - 2:00 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 5-17. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, February 12.

    What Your Survivors Need to Know: Creating a Legacy Document (pdf)
    Tuesday, March 19, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    When a loved one passes or becomes incapacitated, the survivors need access to critical information that is missing from traditional documentation. Learn how to create a legacy document that empowers your survivors with the information they need. Presented by Jim Bardot. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, February 19.

    LEGO® Club (pdf)
    Saturday, March 21, 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, February 21.

    Family Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Sunday, March 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. Space is limited and registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Sunday, February 22.

    Kidding Around Yoga (pdf)
    Monday, March 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. Space is limited and registration is required. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Monday, February 23.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog (pdf)
    Monday, March 23, 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, February 23.

    Tech Training: Is Your Phone Out of Storage? (pdf)
    Tuesday, March 24, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Learn about the space on your phone and what you can delete to make more room. Geared for adults. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, February 24.

    Ferocious Femininity: Female Vampires in Folklore, Film, and History (pdf)
    Tuesday, March 24, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
    Celebrate Women’s History Month! Local author Amanda Woomer will show that the origins of vampires are surprisingly female, dating back to antiquity. Get to know the real women who were accused of being vampires throughout history. Geared for adults. Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, February 24.

    Grow Your Own Salad in Pots (pdf)
    Wednesday, March 25, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
    Dig in and get growing! Learn how to plant lettuce and tomatoes in containers—no garden required. We’ll start from seed and show you how to grow your own fresh, tasty salad right on your porch or patio. Adults only. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, February 25.

    Feelings Rock (pdf)
    Saturday, March 28, 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, February 28.

    ARTY Time (pdf)
    Tuesday, March 31, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
    Create a masterpiece with local art teacher Kimberly Strell. Geared for adults. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, March 10.

     

    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, February 9 book is The Four Winds 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.