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State Department orders nonprofit libraries to stop processing passport applications

On Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, the U.S. Department of State ordered nonprofit libraries to stop passport processing, informing them they are no longer authorized as of this Friday.
The State Department said federal rules bar non-governmental groups from collecting passport fees, noting federal law and regulations clearly prohibit non-governmental organizations from retaining these fees; the spokesperson did not explain why now or how many libraries are affected.
Lancaster Public Library officials say passport services generate more than $60,000 annually, with daily applications rising from 6 to 8 up to about 10 to 12, prompting expanded staff and hours.
About 1,400 mostly non-profit public libraries could be affected, the American Library Association estimates, while a bipartisan group of lawmakers has urged the White House to delay enforcement and proposed legislation to preserve services.
Advocates warn the order will shift burdens to post offices and courthouses, risking layoffs and rural service cuts, as the State Department noted 99% of the population live within 20 miles of a processing location.

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