DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — The Dothan Houston County Library System has suspended passport processing services at all locations, effective immediately, following a directive from the U.S. Department of State.
Library officials said the federal agency has determined nonprofit public libraries may no longer serve as passport acceptance facilities under its interpretation of the 1920 Passport Act.
“To say the least, we are disappointed that we can no longer provide this service,” said Chris Warren, director of DHCLS. “For several years, our staff have taken pride in offering an efficient, customer-friendly passport experience, and our patrons have consistently told us how much they appreciate this. Now residents of Dothan and Houston County have significantly fewer local options for applying for a passport.”
DHCLS is among dozens of nonprofit public libraries nationwide impacted by the ruling. The State Department’s decision does not apply to libraries structured as government entities.
Bipartisan legislation currently pending in Congress — the Community Passport Services Access Act — would amend federal law to allow nonprofit public libraries to resume passport acceptance services.
Library leadership said they will continue monitoring developments and will update the public if services can be reinstated.
