Residents of Medina County, Ohio, now have an accessible option for obtaining passports through the Medina County District Library (MCDL). The library provides passport photo and processing services exclusively at its Medina, Brunswick, and Lodi locations.
Appointment and Preparation
According to Tina Sabol, community engagement manager for MCDL, appointments are essential for utilizing these services. The last appointment of the day is scheduled two hours before the library closes. When residents call to set up an appointment, staff conduct a preliminary interview to ensure applicants are fully prepared. This approach is particularly beneficial for families facing unique situations, such as custody issues or when non-guardian parents cannot attend the appointment.
Sabol emphasized the importance of being ready for the passport application process. “We want to make sure we understand your special circumstances and that patrons have all the paperwork they need to successfully apply,” she said. For a typical family of four without complications, the passport application process should take approximately one hour.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When preparing for their passport photos, applicants should avoid wearing glasses, hats, or clothing in white or camouflage patterns. Sabol recommended visiting the MCDL website at mcdl.info/Passport for detailed information on requirements and to download necessary forms beforehand. Residents can also pick up forms directly at the library.
The library provides a clear breakdown of costs associated with the application, including mailing fees and charges for expedited processing. Notably, MCDL also accommodates infants, who often require more assistance to capture suitable passport photographs. “Those are some of the toughest pictures to take and usually require a few staff members to help,” Sabol explained.
In 2025, MCDL issued 3,958 passports, reflecting a modest increase of 1 percent from the previous year. Sabol pointed out that the first four months of the year typically see higher demand as families prepare for summer travel. For instance, the Medina Library processed 255 passports in January, followed by 191 in February, 228 in March, and 176 in April. In contrast, numbers diminished in the latter part of the year, with 113 in October and 107 in November.
The MCDL’s initiative not only streamlines the process for residents but also serves as a vital resource for those navigating the complexities of passport applications. With an emphasis on preparation and support, the library reinforces its role as a community hub.
