 Serving public libraries in Cayuga, Cortland, Seneca, Tioga and Tompkins Counties
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About Finger Lakes Library System
What We Are
The Finger Lakes Library System is a cooperative library system, chartered in 1958 by New York State, to serve the public libraries in Cayuga, Cortland, Seneca, Tioga, and Tompkins Counties. Our member libraries, currently numbering 33, are independent and governed by local Boards of Trustees. One of twenty-three library systems in New York State, we operate under a state-approved plan of service. The System is governed by an eleven member Board of Trustees with two representatives from each of the five counties served, and one at-large member.
Public Library Systems were established in Education Law in the late 1950s by the State Legislature and Governor for the purpose of helping local libraries better serve their communities through cooperation, sharing resources, and by offering cost-effective services. Governance and function are established in the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education. Most of the 23 public library systems in New York State are primarily supported by State funding.
| Population served | 312,189 (2000 Census) |
| Land area served | 2,513 square miles |
| Member Libraries | 33 |
| Counties served | Cayuga, Cortland, Seneca, Tioga and Tompkins |
| Central Library | Tompkins County Public Library |
Mission Statement
"To stimulate, coordinate and strengthen library and information services within Cayuga, Cortland, Seneca, Tioga and Tompkins counties."
Contact Information
Finger Lakes Library System
119 East Green St.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Toll Free: 800-909-3557
Local Voice: 607-273-4074
Fax: 607-273-3618
Directions to Headquarters
Directory
Five Year Plan of Service
- 2007 - 2011 System Plan of Service
- System By Laws
- Central Library Services
- Free Direct Access Plan
- Public Library Construction Policy and Procedures
The Plan of Service files are all in PDF format and under 100KB in file size.