Traveling Overseas in 2025? Start Your Passport Process at the Birmingham Public Library

 

Do you need a well-earned break from your job? Is there a bucket-list destination or place that you want to check out with friends, family, or even by yourself? 

 If you answered yes to these questions, that means it is time to start planning your next spring break trip! Before you start booking any flights or hotel reservations, make sure that you have your absolutely essential passport. 

 Apply for or renew your passport today at the Birmingham Public Library (BPL) to avoid packing any last-minute stress on your vacation. The BPL is a Passport Acceptance Facility and has many passport acceptance agents who can help you navigate the application process. 

 You can start your passport application process at the Central Library, the Avondale Regional Branch Library, or the Springville Road Regional Branch Library. 

 Central Library's passport hours for walk-in services are Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 205-226-3705 or stop by the Citizen Services Department at the Central Library to find out more. 

Avondale Regional Library and the Springville Road Regional Library both offer passport application services by appointment only. Call the Avondale Library at (205) 226-4000 to reserve your spot. Call the Springville Road Branch Library at (205) 226-4081 to reserve your spot at this branch. 

 Here is a list of the documents you need to apply for your passport today: 

* Form DS-11 

*  Form DS-82 (Adult passport renewal form only if issued within 15 years) 

* Birth certificate 

* Driver's license 

* Photograph (Photograph services at Central, Avondale, and Springville) 

*  Payment for U.S. Department of State as a check or money order 

* Payment for Library in cash, check, or credit 

 Here are other documents that you might need to fill out because of special situations: 

* Form DS-64 (Valid passport has been lost or stolen. This document must also be submitted with a DS-11 application.) 

* Form DS-5504 (Data correction or name change within 1 year or limited passport replacement) 

* Form DS-3053 (This statement of consent for issuing a passport to a child must be notarized and submitted with a DS-11 application.) 

* Form DS-5525 (This document is strictly a statement of exigent/special family circumstances.) 

* Form DS-86 (Statement you did not receive your U.S. passport) 

 NOTE: If you want to travel overseas, you need to account for the time it takes to receive your passport. The U.S. Department of State reported that normal processing time for passports ranges from 4-6 weeks. Expedited passports, which cost an extra $60.00, range from 2-3 weeks. 

If you need to renew or apply for a passport sooner than the 2-3 week range of expedited passport processing, you can schedule an appointment at either the Atlanta Passport Agency or the New Orleans Passport Center. 

 You can also contact your state’s senators if you have other pressing questions, concerns, or sudden emergencies pertaining to your passport application process.

 All the hard work is done. Now check out some incredible recommendations from the U.S. News and World Report’s best spring break destinations this year! 

What a citadel that you must behold!

Machu Picchu, Peru 

Mystery enshrouds Machu Picchu, for it is officially one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. This city of stone is calling you for a life-changing visit. April and May are the perfect months to plan your trip to the most lush site in all of South America. 

As ancient as this place seems, its mostly limestone architecture remains flawless and immaculate. The pyramid design feels so modern but takes you back in time to the 15th century when the Incas constructed it.

Take advantage of the challenging but rewarding hiking trails such as the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, and the Lares Trek. The view of the surrounding valleys and rivers is just as majestic as Machu Picchu itself. 

 Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, spend time in a few of the temples located there like the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana. 

 Now that’s what a coastal city is supposed to look like! 

Lisbon, Portugal

If you plan on traveling to Spain, don’t forget to fit Lisbon, Portugal into your schedule. In fact, you might want to plan another trip solely to this hilly but coastal place. Anytime during the spring season is also the best time to get lost in Lisbon. 

 As one of the oldest cities in the world, you don’t have to worry about sticking to a detailed schedule. Just start walking around neighborhoods such as Alfama and Mouraria, and you will never know what will grab your attention. 

 There are countless walking tours to choose from based on specific interests that range from food and street art to palaces and live music. You are guaranteed to get your steps in for the day. 

 Since it is your spring break trip after all, why not check out some of the beaches over in Lisbon! Some recommended beaches are Praia da Torre, Praia de Carcavelos, and Costa da Caparica.

 *Cue the bagpipes.* 

Edinburgh, Scotland 

If you enjoy history and the outdoors, Edinbugh, Scotland is the perfect place for you. It is a quintessential part of the United Kingdom. The springtime is also the most ideal time to visit this historically significant city before the summertime heat kicks in. 

 There are many castles to tour and explore, which will immerse you in Scottish culture and traditions. These highlights include Palace of Holyroodhouse, Dirleton Castle, and, of course, Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the country’s capital. If you want to explore more of Scotland’s countryside along the way, Stirling Castle is also worth a day trip. 

Once you’re done exploring these castles, a stroll across the always bustling Royal Mile is an obligatory activity in the heart of Edinburgh. There are tons of restaurants, stores, museums, and tours that will satisfy all visitors and make them feel at home. Set aside some time to visit Scottish Parliament too. You might get to witness its leaders and members engage in a debate or meeting. 

2025 marks the five-year anniversary since the COVD-19 pandemic erupted all over the world. Stay vigilant about practicing sanitary habits and be mindful of your overall health. 

Before traveling abroad, check for travel restrictions in any locations that you are traveling through. This includes your final destination and any other stops for connecting flights, layovers, or similar trips.

On top of that, some countries might require additional documentation along with your passport such as a visa or an electronic travel authorization, which is particularly meant for a visit to Canada or the United Kingdom. 

 Find out more about these travel destinations and others at the Birmingham Public Library and other members of the Jefferson County Library Cooperative. 

By William Anthony | Librarian I, Citizen Services Department