The Ridgefield Library will push to expand its services in May by offering full U.S. passport service, a task usually done by the U.S. Postal Service.
The postmaster gave the new operation his approval.
“Absolutely, we welcome that, for more avenues for residents to get their passports,” said George Jacob, the local postmaster, who said with limited parking at the post office on Catoonah Street, the library could help make the process more convenient.
The photo session and application process are done by appointment. That’s the way it will be done at the library, too.
“Right now, most people go to Danbury or Wilton to get their passports,” Jacob said, because of the limited hours at the post office.
The library offers longer operating hours and more parking.
“We really felt it would be a community service, that we have more availablity with hours than the post office does, and are probably a place people come more often than the post office,” said Library Director Chris Nolan.
The passports will also be done on scheduled evenings and one Saturday per month.
The number to call to schedule a passport appointment is 203-438-2282, ext. 11022.
A full passport booklet allows for travel overseas, and a smaller passport card allows for travel to Canada and Mexico.
The handling charge at the library is $25. The passport is issued by the U.S. State Department, which has its own fees.
It will be a money maker for the library. The library applied to the State Department several years ago to offer the service, and there was a long wait.
“There will be some revenue stream associated with this, and it is the kind of thing I think we’re suited for because of our hours and we’re very careful and detail-oriented, and very customer-friendly, so it’s sort of a natural for us,” Nolan said.
Other libraries that offer passport service include Stamford and Darien, she said.