Apply for a Passport Today!
U.S. citizens may apply for their passports at Helen Plum Library.
Who needs an appointment
If you are applying for the first time or are under 16 years old, you must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility like Helen Plum Library. If you are renewing your passport, and your most recent passport has been lost, stolen, or damaged, was issued when you were under age 16, or was issued more than 15 years ago, you must renew in person.
Others may be eligible to renew online or by mail. Visit travel.state.gov for eligibility requirements for renewing in person, by mail, and online.
Passport validity
If you already have a passport, be sure to check how much longer it’s valid. Adult passports are valid for 10 years, and children's passports are valid for five years. Many countries require that your passport have six months of validity when you enter the country.
For more information
For application forms, information on documentation required, fees, and a wealth of other passport and international travel information, visit travel.state.gov. Also, feel free to contact the Patron Services Desk at (630) 627-0316.
Ready, Set, Go!
Ready to travel but not sure where to begin? Helen Plum Library has a collection of resources featuring travel information on many different countries, travel guides, and more!
Visit our travel page for travel guides or try our language-learning resource, Mango Languages!
Appointment FAQs
The Library does not take passport photos, and it’s not recommended for applicants to take their passport photo themselves. It may save money initially, but passport photos must meet many specific requirements, and it’s harder to meet those requirements when you’re taking the photo yourself. We recommend getting your photos taken somewhere like CVS or Walgreens.
Applicants need to make two separate payments when applying for a passport: one to the State Department and one directly to the Library. The State Department’s payment must be in the form of a check or a money order in the exact amount. The Library’s payment can be made with cash or a debit/credit card.
All applicants must appear in person for the application to be processed, even if they’re a minor or have had a prior passport.
Both parents must be present at the appointment if they’re applying for a passport for their child under 16. If one of the parents can’t be there, additional documentation is needed.