The U.S. State Department has ordered certain nonprofit public libraries nationwide to cease processing passport applications, a service many communities have relied on for years. The change, which took effect February 13, 2026, stems from the State Department’s determination that federal law prohibits nongovernmental organizations from collecting fees for passport applications.
Impact on Libraries and Communities
The decision is expected to be particularly disruptive in states where a significant percentage of public libraries are organized as nonprofit entities. Libraries that offer passport services often use the associated fees to support programming and staffing, and may now face difficult choices. Some predict potential staff layoffs, program cuts, or even library closures if they are unable to continue providing this service.
In Pennsylvania’s 556-square-mile Perry County, the Marysville-Rye Library was one of only two passport facilities. Residents will now rely solely on the county courthouse for passport services.
Legislative Response
Pennsylvania Representatives Madeleine Dean and John Joyce have introduced bipartisan legislation – the Community Passport Services Access Act – to amend the Passport Act of 1920 and allow 501(c)(3) nonprofit public libraries to continue serving as passport acceptance facilities. A similar bill is also being considered in the Senate.
Representative Dean, who learned of the policy change from a library in her district that has offered passport services for 20 years, described the State Department’s interpretation of the law as “nonsense.”
What’s Next?
The State Department has stated that 99% of the U.S. Population lives within 20 miles of a designated passport processing location. The agency also indicated it will work to identify new eligible partners in areas affected by the removal of library facilities. However, some librarians, like Cathleen Special of the Otis Library in Norwich, Connecticut, express concern about the increased burden on post offices, which often referred people to the library for assistance with passports outside of regular hours or for applicants needing additional support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the State Department’s decision?
The State Department determined that federal law prohibits nongovernmental organizations from collecting and retaining fees for passport applications.
How many libraries are affected?
The American Library Association estimates that approximately 1,400 mostly nonprofit public libraries nationwide could be affected, representing about 15% of all public libraries.
Is there any effort to reverse this decision?
Representatives Madeleine Dean and John Joyce have proposed legislation to allow nonprofit libraries to continue offering passport services, and a similar bill is pending in the Senate.
As lawmakers consider potential legislative solutions, will communities be able to maintain convenient access to passport services, or will travelers face longer waits and increased challenges in obtaining necessary travel documents?
