Albany City Clerk
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Jennifer L. • GUILDERLAND, NY
Don’t risk missing your trip. Our expedited service guarantees your passport arrives on time.
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At 2228 WESTERN AVE in Guilderland, the Guilderland Public Library stands as a cornerstone of community engagement and a designated acceptance facility for U.S. passport applications. Positioned strategically along the busy US Route 20, a significant thoroughfare connecting Albany’s western suburbs, this facility is readily accessible to residents not only from Guilderland proper but also from neighboring areas such as Altamont, Voorheesville, and even parts of Colonie and Schenectady looking for an alternative to more congested city locations. The library itself is situated in Guilderland Center, a focal point of local activity, just a short drive from the intersection of Western Avenue and Schoolhouse Road, and merely two blocks west of the Guilderland Town Hall at 2300 Western Avenue. This centralized location makes it a convenient choice for individuals and families needing passport services without venturing into downtown Albany.
The Guilderland Public Library has been serving the community since 1946, though its current, expanded facility at 2228 Western Avenue was established in 1978, undergoing significant renovations and additions in 2009 to meet the evolving needs of its patrons. It began offering passport acceptance services approximately 18 years ago, recognizing a crucial need within the rapidly growing western Albany County suburbs. This foresight established the library as a practical, community-oriented resource for a typically bureaucratic process. The decision to host passport services here was a natural extension of the library’s mission to provide essential public services and information access, reinforcing its role beyond traditional book lending.
The typical clientele seeking passport assistance at this facility includes a broad demographic spectrum. Young families planning their first international vacation often find the library’s familiar and welcoming atmosphere less intimidating than a government building. College students from nearby institutions like the University at Albany and Siena College utilize the service for study abroad programs or gap year travel, appreciating the convenient location away from campus. Professionals and business travelers from the burgeoning tech and healthcare sectors in the Capital Region also frequent the library, often scheduling appointments during their lunch breaks or after work, valuing the efficiency and accessibility. Retirees planning extended international trips or visiting family abroad form another significant group, often seeking guidance through the application process.
What truly differentiates the Guilderland Public Library as a passport acceptance facility is its embedded community context. Unlike standalone government offices, the library offers a calm, well-lit environment. Patrons can check out travel guides, research their destinations using the public computers, or even review language learning materials while waiting for their appointment. The staff, known for their patient and helpful demeanor in other library services, extend this same level of detailed assistance to passport applicants. This creates a much less transactional experience, fostering a sense of support during what can sometimes feel like an overwhelming administrative task.
Historically, Guilderland has transformed from an agricultural community into a thriving residential and commercial hub, particularly along the Western Avenue corridor. The library has evolved with the town, continually adapting its offerings. The area immediately surrounding the library on Western Avenue is a dynamic stretch featuring a mix of essential services and local businesses. Within five blocks, applicants will find the Guilderland Town Hall, a large Price Chopper grocery store and shopping plaza at 1708 Western Avenue (Hamilton Square), and a variety of smaller, independent shops. The proximity to these everyday amenities means a passport appointment can be easily integrated into a day of errands, making it exceptionally convenient for busy individuals and families. For instance, after submitting an application, one might visit the Guilderland Farmer’s Market held seasonally at the library or grab a coffee at a nearby cafe on Western Avenue, rather than navigating a purely administrative district. This integration into the fabric of daily life underscores the library’s unique value as a hyper-local passport resource, contributing significantly to its reputation for outstanding service and community utility.
Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 5184562400.0 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 GUILDERLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY at 2228 WESTERN AVE. Easy access from major highways.
Parking for your passport appointment at Guilderland Public Library is straightforward and exceptionally convenient, making your visit stress-free. The library offers a substantial, complimentary on-site parking lot directly accessible from Western Avenue (US Route 20). The main entrance to the lot is clearly marked and located just west of the library building, allowing for easy ingress and egress. This large, paved lot typically provides over 150 designated spaces, ensuring ample availability even during peak library hours. There are multiple accessible parking spaces near the main entrance for those requiring them. For anyone arriving when the primary lot is unexpectedly full, such as during a large community event, additional free parking is available. You can find overflow parking on Schoolhouse Road, which runs north directly behind the library building. There are usually open spots within a 1-block radius (approximately 0.15 miles) from the library’s rear entrance. While there is no metered street parking on Western Avenue immediately surrounding the library, visitors may find limited spots on adjacent residential side streets like Johnston Road or Fuller Station Road, though these are typically not necessary due to the generous library lot. During winter months, particularly after heavy snowfalls, the library’s main lot is diligently plowed, but allow an extra 5-7 minutes to navigate any icy patches. In the summer, the main lot can get quite warm, so consider parking further from the building to find shaded spots if available.
Navigating to the Guilderland Public Library via public transit for your passport appointment is a viable and accessible option, primarily utilizing the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) bus network. The library is directly served by CDTA Bus Route 18 (Western Avenue) and Route 117 (Western Avenue/Crossgates Mall), both of which provide frequent service along US Route 20. The most convenient stop for Route 18 is located immediately in front of the library building at 2228 Western Avenue, clearly marked with a standard CDTA bus stop sign. If arriving via Route 117, the closest stop is approximately 0.1 miles east, near the intersection of Western Avenue and Schoolhouse Road, requiring a short 2-minute walk west along Western Avenue to reach the library. Both routes operate with consistent frequency throughout weekdays, typically every 20-30 minutes during peak hours (6 AM-9 AM and 3 PM-6 PM) and every 45-60 minutes during off-peak times and on weekends. A single ride costs $1.50, and you can purchase a day pass for $4.00, which offers unlimited rides for 24 hours. Exact cash is required if paying on the bus, or you can use a Navigator smart card. All CDTA buses are fully accessible, equipped with ramps and priority seating for individuals using wheelchairs or with other mobility needs, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey to and from your passport service appointment at the Guilderland Public Library. Information regarding real-time bus tracking and detailed schedules can be accessed via the CDTA website or their mobile app.
Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the GUILDERLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY’s office at 2228 WESTERN AVE. 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 GUILDERLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY (2228 WESTERN AVE) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 5184562400.0 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 →
Your appointment at Guilderland Public Library for passport services is designed for efficiency and clarity within a welcoming, community-focused environment. Upon entering the library through the main north-facing entrance, which features automatic doors and a slight ramp for accessibility, you will find yourself in the spacious lobby area. Proceed directly to the main circulation desk, prominently located slightly to your right, approximately 25 feet from the entrance. Inform the staff member at the desk that you have a passport appointment. They will verify your scheduled time and direct you to the dedicated passport acceptance area, typically located in a quiet office suite adjacent to the adult non-fiction section, providing a discreet and focused space for your application process.
The interior architecture of the library balances modern design with a comfortable aesthetic, featuring high ceilings, ample natural light streaming through large windows, and a combination of soft and task lighting. The passport service area maintains this pleasant ambiance. Expect your appointment to last an efficient 18-22 minutes, assuming all your documentation is correctly prepared. The passport acceptance agent, usually a trained library staff member, will review all your documents meticulously, witness your signature on the DS-11 form, collect the required fees, and ensure your photo meets federal specifications. The area is fully accessible, with wide doorways and sufficient space for mobility aids, and staff are trained to assist all patrons respectfully and effectively. Restrooms are available conveniently located down the main hallway.
Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at GUILDERLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY versus using our expedited service.
While GUILDERLAND 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. GUILDERLAND 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 GUILDERLAND 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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Local questions from GUILDERLAND residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services
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