In a move that has sent ripples of concern through communities nationwide, the U.S. State Department has issued directives to numerous nonprofit public libraries, ordering them to cease processing passport applications. This abrupt halt to a long-standing and relied-upon service has left librarians and patrons alike questioning the sudden policy shift and its far-reaching implications.
Disruption to a Vital Community Service
For years, many public libraries have served as crucial passport acceptance facilities, offering a convenient and accessible point of service for individuals seeking to obtain or renew their U.S. passports. These facilities play a vital role, particularly for working families, rural residents, and those who may not have easy access to traditional government offices. The State Department began issuing these "cease and desist" orders in late fall, with the mandate taking effect on Friday, February 13, 2026. This has effectively ended an 18-year run of passport services at institutions like the Otis Library in Norwich, Connecticut.
"We still get calls daily seeking that service," stated Cathleen Special, executive director of the Otis Library. "Our community was so used to us offering this." The disruption is significant, as libraries have become integrated into the fabric of their communities, providing essential resources and services that extend far beyond book lending.
State Department's Rationale
According to a State Department spokesperson, the directive stems from federal law and regulations that "clearly prohibit non-governmental organizations" from collecting and retaining fees associated with passport applications. While government-run libraries are reportedly unaffected, the broad sweep of the order has caught many nonprofit institutions by surprise. The spokesperson did not elaborate on why this issue has become a priority now or the exact number of libraries impacted, but stated that libraries represent less than one percent of the nation's over 7,500 passport acceptance facilities.
However, the American Library Association estimates that as many as 1,400 mostly nonprofit public libraries could be affected, potentially impacting around 15% of all public libraries nationwide, depending on how many offer these services. This figure highlights the potential scale of the disruption.
Bipartisan Congressional Pushback
The move has ignited a strong reaction from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Members of Congress from states including Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland have penned a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging him to extend the existing program until a permanent solution can be found. The letter emphasizes the critical timing, noting a surge in passport demand due to factors like Real ID requirements and increased instances of individuals carrying passports to confirm citizenship amidst concerns about immigration enforcement.
Impact on Accessibility and Finances
The congressional representatives warned that the cessation of library-based passport services will force many individuals to travel significant distances, take unpaid time off work, or forgo obtaining a passport altogether. This is particularly concerning for those in rural areas or with inflexible work schedules. The lawmakers also highlighted the financial implications for libraries themselves.
Many public libraries, especially in states like Pennsylvania where 85% are nonprofit entities, benefit financially from the processing fees associated with passport applications. The loss of this revenue stream could lead to difficult decisions, including staff layoffs, program cuts, or even the potential closure of some library branches. The structure of public libraries varies by state, with a substantial percentage operating as nonprofit organizations rather than municipal departments.
Legislative Efforts Underway
In response to the situation, bipartisan legislative efforts are already in motion. Representatives Madeleine Dean (D-PA) and John Joyce (R-PA) have introduced companion bills in both the House and Senate. These proposals aim to amend the Passport Act of 1920 to allow 501(c)(3) nonprofit public libraries to continue their role as passport acceptance facilities. This legislative push underscores the widespread recognition of the value these libraries provide in facilitating access to essential government services.
The debate over passport processing at nonprofit libraries underscores a broader conversation about the role of public institutions in providing access to government services and the potential consequences of regulatory changes on community infrastructure. As the situation unfolds, many will be watching to see if Congress can forge a solution that balances federal regulations with the essential needs of American citizens.
