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The Joplin Public Library at 1901 EAST 20TH ST in Joplin stands as a central pillar of community engagement and informational access within the city’s vibrant Eastgate neighborhood. Situated strategically on East 20th Street, a primary east-west thoroughfare, the library provides indispensable resources for residents from diverse segments of Joplin. This specific location, just 0.8 miles east of the bustling Range Line Road (US-69/MO-Rte 249) corridor, offers a unique blend of quiet residential accessibility and convenient proximity to major commercial services.
The library primarily serves the eastern and central districts of Joplin, including established neighborhoods like Eastgate itself, the Cunningham Park area immediately to the north, and even extends its reach to families residing near the McClelland Park subdivision to the southeast. Its services are particularly utilized by students from the Joplin R-8 School District; Joplin High School is a mere 0.9 miles west on 20th Street, and McKinley Elementary School is just 0.7 miles north on Range Line, making the library a frequent after-school or weekend destination for academic support and recreational reading. Beyond the K-12 population, the library is a vital resource for the city’s active retiree community, and its robust internet access and study spaces are often sought out by students from Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), located approximately 3.5 miles northwest, and professionals from the expansive Freeman Health System campus, 2.1 miles southwest.
The current Joplin Public Library building, a testament to the city’s remarkable resilience, opened its doors in 2012. This state-of-the-art facility replaced its predecessor, which was tragically destroyed during the devastating EF-5 tornado that struck Joplin on May 22, 2011. The architectural design of the new building emphasizes natural light, open communal spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere, featuring a striking two-story atrium upon entry that immediately conveys its modern, community-focused ethos. Locally sourced Missouri limestone accents the exterior, reflecting a commitment to the region. Within its walls, patrons discover not only an extensive collection of physical and digital media but also dedicated zones like the ‘Discovery Place’ children’s area, which hosts weekly story times for preschoolers, and a comprehensive adult learning center equipped with 30 public access computers.
Beyond traditional library functions, this institution acts as a crucial community hub, hosting a myriad of programs throughout the year. These include the popular ‘Joplin Reads Together’ annual community-wide book club, ‘Tech Tuesdays’ workshops designed to enhance digital literacy for older adults, and specialized genealogy research seminars held quarterly in collaboration with the Jasper County Historical Society. These initiatives foster a strong sense of community and provide essential skills and knowledge, reinforcing the library’s role as more than just a place for books, but a dynamic center for lifelong learning and civic engagement.
Joplin’s rich history, from its origins as a lead and zinc mining boomtown in the late 19th century to its development as a regional commercial and healthcare center, is meticulously documented within the library’s local history archives. The library’s rebirth following the 2011 tornado stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s enduring spirit and its capacity for renewal. This historical context enriches every visit, reminding patrons of the deep roots and tenacious character of the Joplin community. The library, in all its iterations, has continuously served as the memory and educational heart of the city, evolving to meet the contemporary needs of its residents while preserving its unique past.
For those seeking passport services, the Joplin Public Library exemplifies a contemporary approach to public service. Offering passport application acceptance is a deliberate expansion of its mission to provide accessible, essential government services close to home. It alleviates the need for many residents to travel to the distant Joplin Main Post Office downtown or the Jasper County Recorder Of Deeds in Carthage, making international travel preparation significantly more convenient for the eastern Joplin population. The facility’s commitment to efficiency and accuracy ensures that the often-complex process of passport application is as smooth as possible, handled by trained acceptance agents who understand the nuances of federal requirements.
Within a five-block radius, the library benefits from several community anchors. Immediately to the west, at 1820 East 20th Street, stands Commerce Bank (0.1 miles), providing convenient financial services. Slightly further east, at 1731 East 20th Street, is People’s Bank of Seneca (0.2 miles). The Eastgate Shopping Center, about 0.4 miles east, features a local grocery store and pharmacy, allowing patrons to consolidate errands efficiently. For those needing a quick bite, a local fixture like ‘The Burger Stand’ on 20th Street and Illinois Avenue (approximately 0.6 miles west) offers a familiar option. This integration within a practical, accessible urban landscape underscores the library’s deep connection to the daily lives of Joplin residents.
The staff here are known for their professionalism and their helpful, patient approach, particularly when guiding first-time applicants through the passport process. The organized and calm atmosphere of the library’s dedicated service area ensures that applicants can complete their paperwork without undue stress, reflecting the library’s overall commitment to providing a supportive and informative environment for all its patrons.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 4176237953.0 to confirm hours before visiting.
Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling
Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout
Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)
Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)
Located at JOPLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY at 1901 EAST 20TH ST. Easy access from major highways.
Parking at the Joplin Public Library is remarkably convenient, offering a dedicated, free surface lot immediately surrounding the facility. The main parking area is located on the north side of the building, directly off East 20th Street, providing approximately 47 marked spaces, including several ADA-compliant accessible spots near the main entrance. An additional overflow lot with 15 spaces is available on the west side of the building, accessible via a short driveway from 20th Street or by looping around the main lot. All parking here is completely free for library patrons, with no time limits during operating hours, eliminating any concern about meter fees or hourly restrictions. For passport appointments, it is advisable to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled time to secure one of the prime spots closest to the north entrance. While the lot generally has ample availability, peak library hours (especially weekday afternoons from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Saturday mornings) can see higher traffic. During Joplin’s hot summer months, patrons might prefer parking closer to the building for a shorter walk, while in winter, careful navigation of potential icy patches, particularly in the early morning, is recommended. The ease of direct, complimentary parking directly at the facility removes a significant logistical hurdle for applicants.
Accessing the Joplin Public Library via public transit is a viable option for many city residents, primarily through the Ozark Gateway Transit system. The most direct route involves Bus #1, the ‘East 20th Street Circulator,’ which operates Monday through Friday. A designated Ozark Gateway Transit stop is conveniently located directly in front of the library on East 20th Street, allowing for minimal walking distance to the main entrance. Bus #1 runs approximately every 45-50 minutes between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays. A single ride costs $1.50, and a day pass is available for $3.00, providing unlimited rides within the network for the entire day. For those coming from the downtown area or points north/south, a transfer might be necessary. Bus #4, the ‘Main Street Connector,’ frequently runs along Main Street, and a transfer point to Bus #1 can be made at the intersection of 15th Street and Range Line Road, approximately 1.2 miles west of the library. From this transfer point, it’s a direct ride eastbound on Bus #1 to the library stop. All Ozark Gateway Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for passengers with disabilities, ensuring full accessibility. The system also offers bike racks on the front of each bus, accommodating cyclists who wish to combine biking with public transit.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the JOPLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY’s office at 1901 EAST 20TH ST. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.
Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.
Walk into JOPLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY (1901 EAST 20TH ST) 9:00-18:00. We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 4176237953.0 to check wait times.
The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).
Your application is mailed to a federal processing center. Expect 12-13 weeks for routine service (or 7-9 weeks for expedited at +$60). Track status at travel.state.gov.
Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →
The process at Joplin Public Library is designed for clarity and efficiency, ensuring a streamlined experience for passport applicants. Upon arrival, patrons will utilize the main entrance located on the north side of the building, easily identifiable by the distinctive architectural canopy and accessible ramp. Once inside, the central information desk, approximately 15 feet directly ahead and slightly to your right, serves as the initial check-in point. Here, you will confirm your appointment time and be directed to the dedicated Passport Services counter, situated within the Adult Services section on the west side of the main floor, adjacent to the large print collection.
The layout of the passport service area is open and well-lit, offering comfortable seating in a small waiting zone if there’s a brief delay. Each appointment is meticulously scheduled to allow for a comprehensive review without feeling rushed, typically lasting between 18-22 minutes. This duration ensures ample time for the acceptance agent to verify all documentation, administer the oath, and accurately complete the DS-11 form. The library maintains a high standard of accessibility, with wide aisles, automatic door openers at the main entrance, and ADA-compliant service counters. Restrooms are conveniently located near the south-west corner of the building and are fully accessible. Staff are readily available to assist with any questions, guiding you through each stage of the application process with professionalism and a helpful demeanor, making the overall experience straightforward and stress-free.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at JOPLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY versus using our expedited service.
While JOPLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.
Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing
24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case
Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate
Or call us at 800-860-8610
Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service
“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. JOPLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”
“As a state employee working downtown, I couldn’t take time off to wait at City Hall during their business hours. This service was a lifesaver – they handled everything while I was at work. My passport arrived in 4 days, just in time for my Ireland trip.”
“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The JOPLIN post offices all had 2+ month waits for appointments. PassportsandVisas.com got her renewal done in 3 days. Customer service was excellent and kept us updated throughout.”
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