History of the Library
On March 25, 1871 a small group of Olean residents met to form the Olean Library Association. They pledged $150 with which to start a public library.
The new library was established in the rear of a doctor's office. After six months it was moved to a merchant's store. Subscription rates were set at “$2 for gentlemen” and “$1 for ladies,” and an estimated 100 books were made available for circulation.
Over 130 years later, the Olean Public Library is widely used and supported by the residents of Olean. Currently, the library is expanding onto the electronic front in an effort to provide our patrons with the newest technologies to aid them in their education, research and leisure activities.
The city of Olean has 15,347 residents, and is the largest city within a 45 mile radius. Olean is located near the Pennsylvania border in the Southern Tier of New York State.
Driving times between Olean and Buffalo: 1½ hours -- Rochester: 2 hours -- Corning: 1½ hours -- Jamestown: 45 minutes.