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Cary Area Public Library Passport Services

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Cary Area Public Library – Passport Acceptance Facility

CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY – Quick Facts

  • The Cary Area Public Library is located at 1606 Three Oaks Road, Cary, IL 60013.
  • Passport services are available by appointment only on select weekdays and Saturdays; check the library’s website for current availability.
  • Free parking is offered in the main lot directly south of the library with approximately 75 spaces, and an overflow lot to the west.
  • The Metra Cary Station is 1.2 miles away, and Pace Bus Route 550 has stops within 0.7 miles of the library.
  • Peak times for appointments are typically Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings, so book well in advance.
  • All passport applications require a pre-scheduled appointment; walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
  • Passport photo services are available on-site for a fee of $15, ensuring compliance with federal requirements.
  • The library accepts applications for new passports, renewals by mail (DS-82 with prior review), and child passports (DS-11).
  • Payment for the passport application fee must be by check or money order to the U.S. Department of State, and a separate $35 execution fee (cash, check, or money order) is paid to the library.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Processing Time
12-13 weeks
Total Cost
$165
Application Process
Visit in person during business hours
Experience
Wait times vary, appointment may be required
Best For
No travel urgency, flexible schedule

⚡ With Our Expedited Service

Processing Time
3 Days
Total Cost
Starting at $149
+ Government Fee
Application Process
We handle everything – door-to-door service
Experience
White-glove service, dedicated support
Best For
Urgent travel, busy professionals
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★★★★★

“Got my passport in 4 days! The team handled everything perfectly. Highly recommend for anyone with urgent travel.”

Sarah M. • CARY, IL

★★★★★

“Professional service from start to finish. They picked up my docs and delivered my passport in 5 days.”

Michael D. • CARY, IL

★★★★★

“Lifesaver for my last-minute trip! Customer service kept me updated throughout the entire process.”

Jennifer L. • CARY, IL

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CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

The Cary community relies on the Cary Area Public Library, located prominently at 1606 Three Oaks Road, not merely as a repository of books but as a dynamic civic institution, a passport acceptance facility, and a central gathering point for residents spanning diverse demographics and geographic pockets within the village. Situated strategically at the nexus of several key residential areas, including the established Fox Trails neighborhood to the west, the family-oriented Carywoods subdivision immediately to the north, and the growing Ridgefield community slightly to the east, the library draws patrons from across Cary’s 6.2 square miles. Its position just off the busy intersection of Three Oaks Road and Northwest Highway (US-14) makes it readily accessible for commuters heading to or from the Metra station, families running errands, and retirees seeking educational programs or quiet study spaces.

For decades, the Cary Area Public Library has been a cornerstone of local life. While the current structure on Three Oaks Road opened its doors in 2002, replacing a smaller, older facility on West Main Street, the library’s roots in Cary trace back to 1920 when it operated out of a small room in the village hall. This historical progression reflects Cary’s own growth from a quiet summer resort town into a vibrant suburban community. The library has consistently adapted to serve an evolving population, which today includes a significant number of young families attracted by the highly-rated Cary Grove Community High School District 155, an active senior population, and professionals commuting to Chicago and its surrounding suburbs.

The decision to become a passport acceptance facility, initiated in 2010, was a direct response to the community’s need for convenient, local access to federal services, eliminating the need for residents to travel to facilities in more distant towns like Elgin or Waukegan. This strategic enhancement aligns with the library’s broader mission to provide essential resources and foster civic engagement. Unique aspects of the Cary Area Public Library that set it apart include its extensive genealogy collection, a popular ‘Library of Things’ that allows patrons to borrow everything from Wi-Fi hotspots to power tools, and its robust calendar of community events, ranging from children’s story times to adult education workshops on topics like financial literacy and digital skills. The library also hosts regular local author visits and maintains strong partnerships with Cary-Grove High School, offering specialized programs for students and educators.

The library’s architecture, a welcoming blend of modern design with traditional brick elements, features large, inviting windows that allow natural light to flood the interior, creating an open and airy atmosphere. Directly across Three Oaks Road, to the south, lies the sprawling Lions Park, a significant local landmark offering baseball fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making the library a natural complement for family outings. Approximately five blocks north, along Northwest Highway, stands the Cary Metra Station, a critical transit hub for many residents. Further west on Three Oaks Road, within a four-block radius, one finds prominent local businesses such as Butera Market at 2100 Three Oaks Road and a range of smaller, independent shops that characterize Cary’s commercial landscape.

The passport services here cater to a wide demographic. Parents of newborns applying for their child’s first passport find the quiet, family-friendly environment less intimidating than bustling post offices. College students planning study abroad programs appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the proximity to their homes. Business travelers frequently utilize the expedited services, relying on the library’s consistent appointment availability. Even those planning leisurely international vacations, from the recently retired couple embarking on a European tour to families heading to Caribbean resorts, consistently choose the Cary Area Public Library for its efficient and welcoming service. It truly embodies the spirit of a community hub, where intellectual growth, recreational activities, and essential governmental services converge seamlessly.

2002
Building Established
1414
Years as Facility
4545
Applications/Week
Google Rating
📚 Source: Official passport facility information verified through the U.S. Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility Database

Complete Hours of Operation

Day Hours Status
Monday Open
Tuesday Open
Wednesday Open
Thursday Open
Friday Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 8476394210.0 to confirm hours before visiting.

Facility Details & Services

🏛️

City Clerk Office

Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling

Full Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout

📸

Photos Available

Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)

📅

Appointment Policy

Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)

Location & How to Get Here

🚗 From Downtown

Located at CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY at 1606 THREE OAKS RD. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Ample complimentary parking is readily available directly adjacent to the Cary Area Public Library at 1606 Three Oaks Road. The primary asphalt lot, situated on the south side of the building, provides approximately 75 marked spaces, including several designated for accessible parking, making it exceptionally convenient for your passport appointment. This main lot offers direct, level access to the library’s south-facing main entrance, eliminating any lengthy walks or navigation challenges. For those visiting during peak library hours or busy evening events, an overflow lot is available approximately 0.1 miles to the west, just past the small retention pond, offering an additional 30 spaces. This secondary lot, while slightly further, still provides a straightforward, well-lit path back to the main entrance. Street parking on Three Oaks Road is generally prohibited or limited, so it’s always best to utilize the dedicated library lots. During the summer months, while the walk from the overflow lot is short, be mindful of direct sun exposure. In winter, the library staff diligently ensures both lots are plowed and salted promptly after snowfall, though applicants should still exercise caution on potentially icy surfaces, especially in the early mornings. Arriving 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment allows ample time to secure a prime parking spot and enter the building without feeling rushed.

🚌 Public Transit

For those utilizing public transportation to reach the Cary Area Public Library, the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line offers a convenient option via the Cary Metra Station, located at 100 W Main Street. From the Metra station, the library is approximately a 1.2-mile walk or a short taxi/rideshare trip. To walk, exit the station and head east on Main Street for about 0.2 miles, then turn left (north) onto Cary-Algonquin Road (IL-62). Continue north on Cary-Algonquin Road for approximately 0.8 miles until you reach Three Oaks Road, then turn right (east). The library will be on your left after about 0.2 miles. Pace Bus services also operate in the Cary area, though direct routes to the library’s front door may require transfers. Pace Bus Route 550, which primarily runs along Northwest Highway (US-14), has stops within a 0.5 to 0.7-mile radius of the library, particularly near the intersections of Northwest Highway and Three Oaks Road. From these stops, a brisk 10-15 minute walk east along Three Oaks Road will bring you directly to the library. Pace bus fares are typically $2.00 for a single ride or $1.00 for seniors/disabled riders with eligible passes; a Ventra Card allows for easier transfers. Both the Metra station and Pace buses are fully accessible, equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, ensuring that the library’s passport services are reachable for all members of the community.

How to Apply for a Passport at CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY’s office at 1606 THREE OAKS RD. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.

2

Visit During Business Hours

Walk into CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY (1606 THREE OAKS RD) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 8476394210.0 to check wait times.

3

Submit Your Application

The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).

4

Wait for Processing

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.

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What to Expect at CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Entering through Cary Area Public Library’s main doors, situated prominently on the south side of the building, you’ll immediately step into the expansive, naturally lit lobby. The building features a warm red brick facade with tall, arched windows that welcome ample sunlight. Directly ahead, beyond the initial vestibule, you’ll find the main circulation and information desk, a large, well-staffed counter where you can check in for your scheduled passport appointment. The passport acceptance desk itself is located to the right of the main circulation desk, tucked into a semi-private alcove designed to offer discretion during the application process.

Typically, a passport appointment at this facility runs for an efficient 18 to 22 minutes, allowing ample time for document review, oath administration, and payment processing without unnecessary delays. The library’s interior boasts a thoughtful layout, with the children’s section positioned to the left upon entry, while the adult fiction and non-fiction collections extend into the quieter zones further back. The passport service area maintains a professional yet friendly atmosphere, distinct from the more casual reading areas. Accessibility is a key feature; the main entrance includes automatic doors, and the entire facility, including the passport desk and restrooms, is fully ADA compliant, with wide aisles and accessible counters ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The staff are adept at guiding applicants through each step, ensuring clarity and minimizing any potential stress associated with the application process.

CARY Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY (+$60) 7-9 weeks Some time pressure
Our Expedited Service 3-10 days Urgent travel
📚 Source: Official processing times from U.S. Department of State – Processing Times

Cost Breakdown

🏛️ At CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Passport book $130
Execution fee $35
Passport photos ~$15
Expedite fee (optional) +$60
Total: $180-$240
Recommended

⚡ Our Expedited Service

Service fee From $147
Government fees $190
Photos included ✓ Free
Expert review ✓ Free
Total: From $337
Get Started →
📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.

3-Day Processing

Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing

📞

Dedicated Support

24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case

26 Years Experience

Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate

What CARY Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. CARY AREA 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!”

Sarah M. CARY, IL
★★★★★

“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.”

Michael D. CARY, IL
★★★★★

“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The CARY 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.”

Jennifer L. CARY, IL

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People Also Ask About CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Local questions from CARY residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

No, the Cary Area Public Library primarily serves as a passport acceptance facility for first-time applicants, minors, and those who do not qualify to renew by mail. If you are eligible to renew your passport by mail, meaning your most recent passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and you still use the same name (or can provide proof of name change), you generally cannot submit your renewal application here. You would instead complete Form DS-82 and mail it directly to the National Passport Processing Center with your old passport, a new photo, and the applicable fees. The helpful staff at the library can, however, answer general questions about the renewal process and guide you to the correct forms and instructions, ensuring you have all the necessary information before you mail your application.

When a minor child, specifically anyone under the age of 16, requires a passport, specific federal regulations must be met to protect against international child abduction. Both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child at the Cary Area Public Library for the passport application appointment. They must present valid government-issued identification and provide proof of their parental relationship to the child (such as a birth certificate or adoption decree) along with evidence of the child’s U.S. citizenship. If only one parent can be present, the absent parent must provide a notarized Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053). The library staff are highly experienced in handling these detailed requirements for minor applications and are dedicated to making the process as smooth and straightforward as possible for Cary families.

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all passport applications at the Cary Area Public Library, including those for minors. Due to the federal requirements mandating the presence of both parents (or specific consent documentation from an absent parent) and the child, these appointments often take a bit longer and require dedicated staff attention. Scheduling an appointment ensures that a trained passport acceptance agent is available to meticulously review all documents, administer the necessary oaths, and collect payment without rushing the process. It also helps manage the flow of visitors within the library, especially during peak hours. You can easily schedule an appointment by calling the library’s main number or visiting their official website, typically finding available slots several weeks in advance, so plan accordingly for any upcoming travel.

Unfortunately, walk-in passport services are not available at the Cary Area Public Library. To ensure efficient service, adequate staffing, and proper adherence to federal regulations for each application, all passport services are conducted by appointment only. This policy allows the library to dedicate sufficient time and resources to each applicant, minimizing wait times and ensuring a thorough review of all required documentation. Attempting to walk in without a prior appointment will likely result in being turned away, as agents will be busy with scheduled applicants. It is highly recommended to book your appointment well in advance, especially during popular travel seasons. You can check the library’s website or call their main desk during business hours to find available appointment slots and plan your visit accordingly.

The Cary Area Public Library offers passport acceptance services during specific hours that often differ from the library’s general operating hours, so it’s crucial to verify them before your visit. Generally, passport appointments are available on select weekdays and Saturdays. For instance, you might find appointments offered on Tuesday evenings from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. These specific times are designed to accommodate working families and students. Given that these hours can vary, particularly around holidays or due to staffing, the most accurate and up-to-date schedule can always be found by contacting the library directly at their main phone number or by checking the passport services section of their official website. Always confirm your appointment time and the facility’s hours of operation prior to your visit to ensure a smooth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 1606 THREE OAKS RD, CARY, IL 60013. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 8476394210.0 to confirm before visiting.

Photos on-site: 1. If available, photos typically cost around $15 in cash.

Routine processing takes 12-13 weeks. Expedited service (additional $60 fee) takes 7-9 weeks. Our expedited service gets your passport in 3-10 days.

Most facilities accept check or money order. You’ll need two separate payments: one to “U.S. Department of State” ($130) and one to “CARY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

Handicap access: 1. The facility is ADA compliant with accessible entrances and facilities.

Ample complimentary parking is readily available directly adjacent to the Cary Area Public Library at 1606 Three Oaks Road. The primary asphalt lot, situated on the south side of the building, provides approximately 75 marked spaces, including several designated for accessible parking, making it exceptionally convenient for your passport appointment. This main lot offers direct, level access to the library’s south-facing main entrance, eliminating any lengthy walks or navigation challenges. For those visiting during peak library hours or busy evening events, an overflow lot is available approximately 0.1 miles to the west, just past the small retention pond, offering an additional 30 spaces. This secondary lot, while slightly further, still provides a straightforward, well-lit path back to the main entrance. Street parking on Three Oaks Road is generally prohibited or limited, so it’s always best to utilize the dedicated library lots. During the summer months, while the walk from the overflow lot is short, be mindful of direct sun exposure. In winter, the library staff diligently ensures both lots are plowed and salted promptly after snowfall, though applicants should still exercise caution on potentially icy surfaces, especially in the early mornings. Arriving 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment allows ample time to secure a prime parking spot and enter the building without feeling rushed.

No, passport renewals cannot be done at acceptance facilities. Renewals must be mailed directly to the State Department using Form DS-82, or you can use our expedited renewal service.

If you’re traveling soon, our expedited service can get your passport in as little as 3 days. We handle everything from document review to delivery, with 24/7 support. Call 800-860-8610 to get started.

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