Some U.S. libraries can no longer process passport applications.
The State Department has ordered certain nonprofit public libraries to stop offering passport services, ending a crucial system that had helped people apply locally for years. The agency began sending cease-and-desist letters in 2025, saying nonprofit organizations are not allowed to collect passport application fees under federal law.
Government-run libraries are not affected. However, nonprofit libraries—common across the Northeast U.S.—are.
According to the American Library Association, about 1,400 nonprofit libraries operate nationwide. Many served as official passport facilities—helping residents apply, submit documents, and pay fees in person.
Now, that easy access is fading.
Why the Government Made the Change
The State Department says the decision comes down to legal eligibility. Officials say only government entities can collect passport fees. Nonprofit libraries do not qualify, even if they had been offering the service for years without problems.
However, many argue that the reasoning is weak and bipartisan legislation is being written to allow these libraries to continue offering the service.
More than 7,500 passport acceptance facilities remain open across the country, including post offices, clerk offices, and public agencies. However, local libraries long turned to for passports will no longer be able to provide service.
The United States Postal Service will continue to handle most applications, and provide photos.
Why Libraries Say it Matters
For many communities, libraries were the easiest option to turn to for passport services. They offered evening hours, familiar staff, and accessibility. That made a difference for working families, rural residents who live far from city centers, and people without access to easy transportation.
Some libraries say the demand has not stopped. At Otis Library in Connecticut, passport service ended in late 2025. Staff say residents still call daily asking for help with passport applications.
Lawmakers have taken notice. Members of Congress, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s colleagues, warned the change could make passport access harder in many areas—including in deep red districts that rely on rural outposts.
Passport Services Moving Forward
Passport services are still widely available across the U.S., but fewer local options exist.
Those seeking a U.S. passport now have fewer application options than before. Travelers may need to go to post offices or government offices instead of their neighborhood library. Access isn’t completely cut off—but obtaining a passport could become more burdensome for hundreds of thousands of Americans. The main question on critics’ minds: what’s the real reason for the change?
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.