Queens, New York – The Queens Public Library (QPL) is actively working to recover from a ransomware attack that disrupted its digital infrastructure on Wednesday afternoon. While the library’s website, mobile app, public computers and digital media services remain offline, staff have restored free Wi‑Fi access and checkout/return machines at every open location.
Patrons thanked as essential services resume
QPL President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott issued a statement thanking patrons for their patience and encouragement. “Our team is heartened by the words of encouragement and appreciation for QPL that so many people have shared with us,” Walcott said. He emphasized that the library’s technology is vital for community members to access information, stay connected, and use library resources.
Walcott confirmed that late fees will not be charged while the outage persists, relieving borrowers of additional penalties during the disruption.
What remains unavailable
Despite the partial restoration, several key services continue to be affected:
- The Queens Public Library website is still down, though visitors are redirected to a temporary page with basic information and updates.
- The QPL Mobile App cannot be used for account management, holds, or digital borrowing.
- On‑site public computers, printers and internal library systems remain offline.
- Digital media services, including e‑books and audiobooks, are unavailable.
- Online book renewal functions are temporarily disabled.
Response and next steps
Walcott said the library’s IT team is working closely with government partners and external cybersecurity experts to investigate the attack and restore full functionality. “We do not yet have a timeline, but we will keep the public informed,” he added.
All library locations remain open according to their regular schedules, and staff are providing in‑person assistance wherever possible. Updates are being shared through the library’s social‑media channels and the temporary website.
Community impact
The Queens Public Library serves a diverse population across the borough, offering not only books but also critical digital resources, job‑search assistance, and educational programs. The outage underscores the growing importance of robust cybersecurity measures for public institutions that rely on technology to serve their communities.
Local officials have expressed support for the library’s recovery efforts, noting that the institution remains a cornerstone of neighborhood life. As the investigation proceeds, the library aims to emerge with stronger safeguards to protect patrons’ data and ensure uninterrupted access to essential services.
How to stay informed
Patrons can follow the library’s official Twitter and Facebook accounts for real‑time updates, or visit the temporary webpage at www.queenslibrary.org/temporary for the latest information.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
