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. 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 2023 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.

  • 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.

    • Accessibility/sensory Kits - Useful kits to help children develop skills in social/emotional management, fine/gross motor skills, and sensory/calming management. Kits include a social-emotional learning kit, emotional management toolkit and accessories, try before you buy fidget kit, basic gross motor skills kit, finger strengthening kit, oral-motor skills kit, sorting games kit, handwriting tools kit, wobble balance board, scooter board, step-a-forest, therapy balls, agility ladder, and a hair puller/skin picker fidget kit. In-library items include noise-cancelling headphones, a wobble cushion, a high contrast keyboard, and various fidget toys.
       
    • 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, Measuring Light in the Night, Monitoring Air Quality, Observing Pollinators, Project Squirrel, ZomBee Hunting, and Animal Tracks (in the Snow).
    • 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, scavenger hunt, and fishing rods.
    • Literacy Kits - Borrow The Hungry Little Caterpillar, letters, colors & shapes, knitting & crocheting, fairy tales STEM, numbers, handwriting, phonics, and sign language.
    • 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

    STEM Kits: Origami Jumping Frog Challenge
    All May long
    Create an origami jumping frog by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last. 

    Tiny Art Show
    Free Tiny Art Kit Pickup: May 1-7
    Art Drop-off: by May 18
    In-library art show: May 20-31
    Stop by the library to pickup your free tiny art kit (while supplies last) and create a tiny masterpiece. All entries will be submitted in a drawing to win a prize. For all ages.

    LEGO® Club
    Saturday, May 4, 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.

    Family Kidding Around Yoga
    Sunday, May 5, 2:30 - 3:15 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.

    Kidding Around Yoga
    Monday, May 6, 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. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Just Say Yes to Fruits and Vegetables
    Monday, May 6, 1:00 - 1:45 p.m.
    Join a FeedMoreWNY nutrition educator for a live recipe demonstration. Learn new cooking skills and receive a small cooking related gift! Registration is required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Preschool Storytime
    Tuesdays, May 7 - 21, 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, May 7 - 21, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, May 9 - 23, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, May 10 - 24, 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, May 7, 14, 21, & 28, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, May 16 & 30, 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
    Wednesdays, May 8 - 22, 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 required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Mother's Day Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau
    Wednesday, May 8, 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.

    Lapsit
    Thursdays, May 9 - 23, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, May 10 - 24, 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.

    YA Book Club
    Thursday, May 9, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
    Join us as we discuss Gallant by V.E. Schwab. Ages 10-14. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Feelings Rock
    Saturday, May 11, 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.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog
    Saturday, May 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.

    Spring Ahead to Joy: Neurographia
    Wednesday, May 15, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
    Boost your joy using free-form art to capture and transform negative thoughts. Presented by Nancy J. Eckerson, certified Infinite Possibilities Coach. Registration recommended for all 3 sessions: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Homeschool LEGO® Club
    Thursday, May 16, 1:00 - 1:30 p.m.
    Come and create with LEGOS®. Each month we will have a theme to build your own creation to be displayed in the library. Bricks will be provided. Ages 5-17. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Comic Book Club
    Saturday, May 18, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Draw and discuss your own comic book and create your very own comic book page wallet. Ages 8-14. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Chicken BBQ
    Sunday, May 19, 11:30 a.m. 'til sold out
    The Friends of the Lancaster Library invite you to a chicken BBQ. BW's chicken dinner: $16. Chicken dinner includes potato salad, coleslaw, roll with butter, and a cookie. All proceeds will help keep the library open on Sundays during the school year.

    Ms. Melissa's Sprouts
    Monday, May 20, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
    Join Ms. Melissa in helping your little one learn and grow through music. Birth - age 6. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Spring Ahead to Joy: Emotional Freedom Technique
    Wednesday, May 22, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
    Feeling angry, sad or frustrated? Tap your way back to peace of mind & experience joy with this ancient tool. Presented by Nancy J. Eckerson, certified Infinite Possibilities Coach. Registration recommended for all 3 sessions: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Lancaster Public Library: History & Current Services
    Thursday, May 23, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
    As part of the 175th anniversary of the Village of Lancaster, Library Director Kara Stock will give an overview of the library's history. In addition, learn how the library of today offers some much more in addition to books. No registration required.

    Natcole Staskiewicz Author Visit
    Saturday, May 25, 12:30 - 2:00 p.m.
    Join Author Natcole Staskiewicz will read her latest children’s book, The Great Grandma Buffalo, a heartwarming and enduring tale that transcends generations. A book signing will follow. Geared for kids, but all ages welcome. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Art-Y Time
    Wednesday, May 29, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
    Tap into your artistic side and create a springtime scene with local art teacher Kimberly Strell. 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, May 8.

    Bead Art
    Thursday, May 30, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create bead jewelry. Ages 6-12. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

     

    STEM Kits: DIY Sundial
    All June long
    Create a DIY sundial by picking up a free STEM kit to experiment with at home. For ages 7 and up. While supplies last. 

    LEGO® Club
    Saturday, June 1, 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, May 4.

    Ms. Melissa's Sprouts
    Monday, June 3, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.
    Join Ms. Melissa in helping your little one learn and grow through music. Birth - age 6. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Monday, May 20.

    Preschool Storytime
    Tuesdays, June 4 - 18, 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. Registration begins Tuesday, May 21.

    Toddler Time
    Tuesdays, June 4 - 18, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, June 6 - 20, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Fridays, June 7 & 14, 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. Registration begins Tuesday, May 21.

    Computer Coach
    Tuesdays, June 4, 11, 18, & 25, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    Thursdays, June 6 & 13, 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, May 7.

    T'ai Chi Chih
    Wednesdays, June 5, 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 required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Wednesday, May 22.

    Spring Ahead to Joy: Infinite Possibilities
    Wednesday, June 5, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
    Learn how to design your own positive affirmations and watch your life lighten up. Presented by Nancy J. Eckerson, certified Infinite Possibilities Coach. Registration recommended for all 3 sessions. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120.

    Lapsit
    Thursdays, June 6 - 20, 10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
    Fridays, June 7 & 14, 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, May 21.

    Feelings Rock
    Saturday, June 8, 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, May 11.

    Kidding Around Yoga
    Monday, June 10, 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. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Monday, May 6.

    Father's Day Crafts with the Lancaster Youth Bureau
    Wednesday, June 12, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
    Create fun crafts for Father'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. Registration begins Wednesday, May 8.

    Battle of the Books Informational Meeting
    Thursday, June 13, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
    Join our Battle of the Books team. For students entering grades 6-9 in the fall of 2024. Registration required: Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, May 9.

    Comic Book Club
    Saturday, June 15, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    Comic book club is the place for kids who love to read, draw, write and learn about new comics and graphic novels. Discuss and draw your own comic book and draw your very own comic keychain. Ages 8-14. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Saturday, May 18.

    Tech 360 Computer Class
    Monday, June 17 and Monday, June 24, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
    Adults will learn basic computer skills (computer usage, Windows, internet basics, and email basics) with help from a trainer. Participants must attend both sessions. Once they complete both days, participants will receive a free desktop computer. Limited class size. To register and complete the preassessment, contact Mission: Ignite at (716) 823-7248 Ext 589. Sponsored by Mission: Ignite.

    Tech Training: Libby App
    Tuesday, June 18, 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 the app Libby to access digital materials for free from your own phone, tablet, e-reader, or laptop. Registration is required, space is limited. Please bring your B&ECPL library card, your fully charged device, and any usernames and passwords associated with it. Ages 17 and up. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Tuesday, May 21.

    Homeschool LEGO® Club
    Thursday, June 20, 1:00 - 1:30 p.m.
    Come and create with LEGOS®. Each month we will have a theme to build your own creation to be displayed in the library. Bricks will be provided. Ages 5-17. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, May 16.

    Summer Kick-off Party
    Thursday, June 27, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
    Families are invited to celebrate the summer with hands-on crafts, sensory activities, popcorn, a duck game, and a rockin' reading concert by the Hills Brothers. Pout-pout Fish will make a special appearance. For all ages. Registration is required: register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, May 23.

    Paws for Love: Read to a Dog
    Friday, June 28, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 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, May 31.

    Bead Art
    Friday, June 28, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
    Create bead jewelry. Ages 6-12. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online at https://bit.ly/lancasterlibrary or call 716-683-1120. Registration begins Thursday, May 30.

    Free Math Help
    Tuesdays, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
    NYS certified math teacher Catherine Thielmann will be available at the library by appointment. For grades 2-9. Signup for a free 20-minute appointment by calling the library at 716-683-1120 or by stopping by the information desk.

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

    Baubles and Bling Jewelry Donations
    May 1 - August 31
    The Friends of the Lancaster Library are now accepting donations of jewelry (and cotton boxes) for their November fundraiser. All proceeds will benefit the library. Thank you for your support.