Our purpose is to create a public forum for professional artists to interact with the community. The library presents a visual arts series of up to 12 group and solo exhibitions annually. The gallery has been in operation for over 30 years, and has presented the works of hundreds of artists in the Western New York and Greater Niagara region. We present an annual literature series featuring readings and discussions by professional writers.

Occasional storytelling performances and music programs are scheduled into our presentations.

Submissions for solo or group exhibitions in any media including painting, photography, book arts, printmaking, sound, sculpture, installation and video installation. Artists receive honorarium and travel expenses.

For 2011, we will schedule several shows that tie to the library context. Book arts, literacy, and language are some of the possible topics.

Selection is based on artistic quality and potential of work, with an emphasis on emerging artists in New York State.

The Olean Public Library Gallery has provided an exhibition venue for New York State artists since 1974, giving artists exposure and exhibiting experience and providing Greater Olean Area residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy the work of contemporary visual artists.

Selection of artists is based on artistic quality and potential of the work, with an emphasis on emerging artists. Work is selected through an ongoing open call for submissions, followed by studio visits with the artists.

Artists working in all media are shown. Artists interested in exhibiting at the Olean Public Library should send a packet of material that includes a print out of at least 4 images as well as a CD or slides to:

Cori Wolff, Gallery Curator
Olean Public Library
Buffalo Arts Studio
2495 Main Street, Suite 500
Buffalo, NY 14214

If you are interested in holding open readings at the library, or at other local venues, or assisting with planning future literature events, please contact Thomas Krampf.

If you are interested in exhibiting your work in the Olean Public Library Gallery please contact curator Cori Wolff.

View a gallery of images from exhibits dating back to 1993.

All Library activities are free and open to the public, however space limitations for some activities necessitate pre-registration.