Passport
The U.S. State Department has ordered several non-profit public libraries across the country to stop accepting and processing passport applications immediately. This decision applies to libraries that are not government-run but have been providing passport-related services to residents for years. The order was issued on Friday, February 13, 2026, after which the affected libraries were officially notified that they can no longer operate as “Passport Acceptance Facilities.”
In the United States, many public libraries are not limited to books; for a long time, they have offered several important passport-related services to residents, such as accepting new passport applications, verifying the identity of first-time applicants and children, checking required documents, collecting application fees, and forwarding the forms. Especially in small towns, rural areas, and working families, the library was a convenient and reliable option because evening and weekend appointments were often available.
Under Federal law, specifically the Passport Act of 1920. Passport issuance and the handling of related fees are strictly under federal jurisdiction. While individual state constitutions might define how a library is “run,” the regulation being enforced is a federal one from the U.S. Department of State. However, many libraries are registered as non-profit organizations and are not run directly by a government department, which is why they were included in this program. The state department says this rule is not new; rather, it is a strict enforcement of existing laws.
This order applies only to non-profit public libraries. Libraries that are operated by city, county, or state governments or run directly from the government budget can still accept passport applications.
According to the American Library Association, there were about 1,400 libraries in America that, while non-profit, provided passport services, and they are now affected by this decision.
Ordinary citizens will feel the most significant impact of this decision. Libraries have been known for lower crowds, quicker appointments, and the convenience of bringing children. Now people will have to go to post offices or county clerks’ offices, where time slots are limited. In many rural areas, the library was the only nearby passport service center; people had to travel longer distances, take time off work, and their travel plans may be delayed.
Following this decision, several lawmakers have expressed concern. Leaders from both political parties have asked the State Department to reconsider the order. Leaders from both political parties have written to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was confirmed in January 2025, requesting that the department reconsider the order and provide temporary relief until the law can be amended.
There is now a debate in Congress about amending the old passport laws so that 501(c)(3) non-profit libraries can again have their passport applications accepted. However, no final decision has been made yet.
State Department Passport
In the United States, the U.S. Department of State is responsible for issuing passports and all major related policies. A passport is not only an official document for international travel but also proof of U.S. citizenship. The State Department ensures that the passport process is secure, legal, and in accordance with international standards.
The U.S. State Department is the principal government department that handles America’s foreign policy, international relations, and political affairs. It is responsible for managing foreign missions and consulates, rules related to visas and passports, and the safety of American citizens abroad. Passport services are administered by the Bureau of Consular Affairs within this department.
An American passport is a government-issued document that proves the bearer is a citizen of the United States of America. This document provides identification and citizenship proof during international travel. In the United States, there are mainly two types of passports: the Passport Book, which is used for international air, sea, and land travel; and the Passport Card, which can be used for land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and some select other regions, but not for international air travel.
The State Department itself does not accept applications everywhere; instead, it authorizes Passport Acceptance Facilities such as USPS post offices, county or city clerk offices, and some government libraries. These centers accept applications, verify documents, and then send the applications to the State Department.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a rapid increase in international travel, causing passport applications to reach record numbers, longer processing times, and higher demand for emergency passport services. To ease this pressure, the State Department increased staff and accelerated the processing system.
Fees set by the State Department include the application fee, processing or execution fee, and service charges. These fees are determined by the government and can change from time to time.
Because a passport is a sensitive document, the State Department places special emphasis on security. Biometric data, high-security printing, and digital record verification are used. Providing false information or submitting fraudulent documents can lead to serious legal consequences.
Even now, there has been some debate over certain State Department decisions, such as the removal of passport services from certain non-governmental agencies, the strict interpretation of rules, and concerns about service hours in rural areas. The department, however, says these decisions are made within the bounds of law and security.
According to the State Department, passport matters are tied to national security, adherence to rules is necessary, and most citizens still have access to passport services. The department also states that the system is being improved and streamlined.
Summary
The passport system in America is fully under the control and supervision of the U.S. State Department. Whether it is issuing a new passport, renewing, or addressing emergencies abroad, the State Department plays a central role in every aspect. With increasing travel, security challenges, and legal regulations, keeping the passport system balanced is an ongoing process.
The decision to remove non-profit libraries from passport services has been described as based on legal rules, but its social and practical impact is also deep. While one side is talking about compliance with government regulations, the other side may face inconvenience to ordinary citizens and local communities. In the coming times, it will be seen whether Congress makes changes to the law on this issue or not.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or travel advice. While we strive for accuracy, passport regulations and government policies can change rapidly. Readers are encouraged to verify all information with the official U.S. Department of State website before making travel plans.
