Lilian S. Besore Memorial Library Passport Services

Lilian S. Besore Memorial Library has been serving the Greencastle community and surrounding Antrim Township region since its establishment in 1954, evolving from a small local collection into a dynamic resource hub for citizens across all demographics. Situated prominently at 305 East Baltimore Street, just two blocks east of the historic Greencastle Borough Hall and a stone’s throw from the Greencastle Post Office, this institution stands as a testament to the town’s enduring commitment to education and civic engagement. The library anchors the vibrant East End of downtown Greencastle, a neighborhood characterized by a mix of long-standing family residences and independent businesses, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit. Its location, easily accessible at the intersection of East Baltimore Street and South Washington Street, positions it conveniently for residents commuting from areas like Shady Grove to the south, Marion to the north, and even those from the quieter, rural stretches of Upton.

The library primarily serves the families within the Greencastle-Antrim School District, offering extensive children’s programming that includes story times for toddlers, summer reading challenges for elementary students, and homework help resources for middle and high schoolers. Beyond the K-12 population, it also sees frequent patronage from local retirees, many of whom reside in the nearby senior living communities or historic homes along Jefferson Street and Madison Street. These individuals often utilize the library for its robust collection of large-print books, daily newspaper access, and weekly adult learning workshops, ranging from digital literacy courses to local history presentations about Greencastle’s role in the Civil War era. Furthermore, small business owners and remote workers from the immediate vicinity, including those operating out of offices along North Washington Street, leverage the library’s free Wi-Fi, public computers, and meeting spaces for their professional needs.

One of the unique aspects of the Lilian S. Besore Memorial Library is its deep integration into the local historical fabric. The original structure, a modest brick building that opened its doors seventy years ago, has undergone thoughtful expansions, including a significant addition in 1998 that blended seamlessly with the existing architecture. This expansion brought in expanded reading rooms and dedicated technology zones, allowing the library to keep pace with modern information access needs without losing its cherished small-town character. The building itself is notable for its classic Georgian-revival architectural elements, particularly the symmetry of its facade and the detailed cornices visible from Baltimore Street. Its proximity to significant local landmarks, such as the Franklin County Historical Society’s Allison-Antrim Museum just under a mile west on Lincoln Way, fosters a collaborative spirit in preserving and promoting Greencastle’s rich heritage.

The library’s passport acceptance facility, established approximately fifteen years ago, offers an essential government service, mitigating the need for residents to travel to larger neighboring cities like Chambersburg or Hagerstown, Maryland. Prior to its designation, securing a new passport often involved a 20-30 minute drive, a minor but significant hurdle for many. Now, citizens can handle their passport applications right here in Greencastle, often combining their visit with other errands, such as picking up groceries at Sunnyway Foods on Antrim Way or visiting the post office across the street. This localized service underscores the library’s role as a comprehensive community asset, providing not only intellectual and cultural enrichment but also vital administrative functions that contribute to the practical well-being of its patrons. The acceptance agents, several of whom have served the library for over a decade, are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and patient guidance, ensuring a smooth application process for first-time applicants, minors, and those needing to replace lost documents. From assisting with the nuances of the DS-11 form to verifying proof of citizenship and identity, the team at Lilian S. Besore Memorial Library exemplifies a commitment to exceptional public service, embodying the very spirit of community support that has defined this institution for generations.

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Lilian S. Besore Memorial Library welcomes visitors seeking passport services into a serene and well-organized environment. Upon arriving at 305 East Baltimore Street, you will find the main entrance situated on the north side of the building, directly facing the street. The facade boasts classic red brickwork with large, inviting windows, and a modest concrete ramp provides fully accessible entry alongside a short set of steps. Once inside, the atmosphere is quiet and respectful, reflective of a community library.

To initiate your passport application process, proceed straight ahead past the initial lobby area to the main circulation desk, which is centrally located within the first floor’s open layout. A clearly marked sign will guide you to the designated passport acceptance window, typically the leftmost station, where friendly library staff serve as trained acceptance agents. They are adept at streamlining the process, ensuring all documentation is in order. Appointments generally last between 18-22 minutes, allowing ample time for document review, oath administration, and fee collection without feeling rushed. The area is designed for privacy, yet remains easily accessible. The library is fully ADA compliant, with wide aisles, easily navigable spaces, and accessible restrooms located just past the children’s section on the same floor. You’ll find comfortable seating options in the nearby reading areas should you arrive a few minutes early for your scheduled time.

Or call us at 800-860-8610