Mid-continent Public Library – Withers Branch Passport Services

Liberty residents benefit from the Mid-continent Public Library – Withers Branch not only as a cornerstone of community education and engagement but also as a designated passport acceptance facility. Situated prominently at 1665 S Withers Road, the Withers Branch serves a diverse demographic ranging from young families residing in newer developments like Claymont Estates and The Oaks at Liberty, to retirees from areas closer to Liberty Square, and students from William Jewell College just a few miles east on N Lightburne Street. The facility’s location, strategically placed between residential neighborhoods and the expanding commercial corridors along Highway 291 and W 15th Street, makes it an accessible point for those needing to fulfill their international travel documentation requirements without navigating the more congested areas of downtown Kansas City. This branch effectively mitigates the need for a significant commute, a substantial advantage for residents of Liberty and the surrounding northern Clay County communities such as Pleasant Valley and Kearney.

Before its current iteration as a modern, efficient library branch and passport facility, the land around S Withers Road saw gradual development from agricultural plots into suburban sprawl starting in the mid-20th century. The growth of Liberty as a desirable residential area, particularly in the post-war boom and subsequent decades, necessitated expanded public services, with libraries often at the forefront. The Withers Branch, specifically, reflects this evolution, having been established in a period of significant community expansion. It stands today as a testament to the Mid-continent Public Library system’s commitment to delivering essential services where they are most convenient for residents. This particular stretch of S Withers Road, intersecting with local thoroughfares like W 17th Street and providing easy access to major arteries such as Highway 291, has seen consistent development over the past thirty years, transforming from a semi-rural fringe into a vibrant commercial and residential blend. The library’s presence anchors this transformation, providing a central point for learning and civic functions.

Demographically, the passport services at the Withers Branch are heavily utilized by families preparing for international vacations, especially during school breaks. Many professionals commuting to Kansas City who prefer not to handle passport applications in busier urban centers also find this location ideal due to its appointment-based system and typically calmer environment. Furthermore, students from William Jewell College who might be planning study abroad programs or post-graduation international travel frequently utilize this convenient local option. The library actively promotes its passport services through local school districts, community newsletters, and partnerships with organizations serving young adults, ensuring that a broad cross-section of Liberty’s population is aware of this critical offering. This outreach ensures that first-time applicants, those renewing, and parents applying for minor children are all well-informed and prepared.

Unique aspects of the Withers Branch extend beyond its passport acceptance services. The library itself boasts a contemporary design with ample natural light, quiet study rooms, and a dedicated children’s area that sees high traffic from families in the surrounding Wilshire Plaza and Heritage Hills neighborhoods. Its robust calendar of events, ranging from children’s story times to adult education workshops and local author readings, fosters a strong sense of community engagement. These diverse offerings underscore the library’s role as more than just a place for books and passport applications; it’s a dynamic community resource. While waiting for a passport appointment, applicants can explore the latest bestsellers, utilize public computers, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. The convenience of handling such a crucial task in a familiar, comfortable setting cannot be overstated.

Within five blocks of the Withers Branch, several key landmarks enhance its community integration. Directly across S Withers Road, a comprehensive commercial plaza offers various retail and dining options, simplifying errands before or after an appointment. Just a few blocks north on S Withers Road, you’ll find the main entrance to Stocksdale Park, a prominent recreational area with walking trails and athletic fields, frequently visited by local families. To the east, around the intersection of W 15th Street and N 291 Highway, lies a cluster of medical facilities including Liberty Hospital, a significant regional healthcare provider. Further south, past the intersection with W 17th Street, are residential zones and local schools like Heritage Middle School and Liberty North High School, highlighting the library’s central role in the daily lives of area residents. This proximity to essential services and community hubs reinforces the Withers Branch’s accessibility and value to the Liberty community, solidifying its standing as an indispensable resource for international travel needs and beyond.

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The experience at Mid-continent Public Library – Withers Branch for a passport appointment begins with its welcoming and well-maintained exterior. The building showcases a modern brick facade with large, inviting windows that allow natural light into the main lobby. The primary entrance is located on the east side of the building, directly facing the expansive parking lot off S Withers Road, featuring a set of wide, automatically opening glass doors. Upon entering, visitors will find themselves in a spacious, open-concept lobby. To check in for your passport appointment, proceed directly to the main circulation desk, which is prominently located about 15 feet straight ahead and slightly to the left from the entrance. There, a staff member will confirm your scheduled time and direct you to the dedicated passport acceptance counter, often located near a specific window or a semi-private area to ensure confidentiality.

The layout of the facility is intuitive, with clear signage guiding visitors. Passport appointments are typically conducted in a designated area that minimizes distractions, allowing for efficient processing. The staff members are highly trained and adept at guiding applicants through the necessary paperwork. A typical appointment duration at the Withers Branch is precisely 20-25 minutes, assuming all required documents are brought and properly prepared. This timeframe allows for thorough document review, completion of the DS-11 form if not pre-filled, oath administration, and payment processing. The facility is fully compliant with ADA standards, offering ramp access at all entrances, accessible restrooms, and wide aisles throughout the library for ease of mobility, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patrons.

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