Why did the State Department bar nonprofit libraries from processing passports?

The agency centralized intake to government-run sites, citing program control, consistency, and security across locations. Nonprofit libraries must stop acceptance activities, which moves applicants to post offices, city halls, and county offices. The shift aims to create uniform oversight, though it also removes a convenient community access point for many first-time applicants.

Where can I apply now that library passport services ended?

Use government-run passport acceptance facilities. Common options include USPS post offices, city and county clerks, and some courthouses. Check online appointment portals for your ZIP code and nearby counties. If your city is booked, expand your search radius, look for early morning or late afternoon slots, and prepare documents to complete intake in one visit.

Will this change delay my travel plans?

It can, especially if you need an in-person appointment as a first-time applicant or for a child. Fewer intake sites often mean longer waits for appointments. Book the earliest available slot, consider nearby counties for faster access, and review document checklists to avoid rework. If timing is tight, consider paying for expedited options where available.

Could Congress reverse or modify the decision?

Yes, bipartisan interest has emerged. Lawmakers could press for a full reversal, targeted waivers for high-need areas, or funding to expand capacity at government sites. Watch for committee letters, hearing notices, or pilot programs. Any change will likely show up quickly as added appointment times, extended hours, or mobile intake events.

Law and Government

February 17: State Dept Bars Nonprofit Libraries From Passport Processing

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 17, 2026February 17, 2026

On February 17, the State Department passport policy barred nonprofit public libraries from processing applications. Demand now shifts to post offices and government-run sites. We outline what changed, how it could slow approvals before peak travel, and why bipartisan pressure in Congress matters. For retail investors, localized delays may affect bookings, customer service volumes, and fee-driven services. We focus on practical timelines, regional pinch points, and key signals that could confirm a policy tweak or a fast reversal.