The Southern Tier Library System (STLS) is a cooperative library system, chartered in 1958 by New York State, to serve the public libraries in Allegany, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, and Yates County. Our 48 member libraries are independent and governed by local Boards of Trustees. 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.
| Population served | 262,119 (2023 Census est.) |
| Land area served | 3,502 square miles |
| Member Libraries | 48 |
| Counties served | Allegany, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Yates |
STLS member libraries have a long-standing tradition of serving our region by ensuring all residents have access to cultural, economic, educational, and social opportunities. Our libraries subscribe to the Library Bill of Rights and a set of core values that guide our mission, as well as our Declaration Promoting Racial and Social Justice.