Queens Library Hit by Ransomware Attack

A ransomware attack has disrupted the Queens Public Library's website, computers, Wi-Fi, mobile app and digital media services, though all three branches remain open.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Cybersecurity

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Queens Public Library confirmed a ransomware attack on Wednesday evening that caused a network outage downing its website, on-site computers, check-out and return machines, public Wi-Fi, mobile app and digital media services. Renewals are unavailable, but all three QPL branches, including the central library in Jamaica, remain open.

Why it matters

The outage removes many everyday library services for patrons across the borough. Because no established ransomware group has claimed responsibility, the attack's source and scope remain unclear.

QPL confirmed the attack through social media and directly to patrons, and its IT department is working to resolve the issue. No ransomware group has claimed responsibility, and the library has not provided a restoration timeline.

The players

Queens Public Library

Queens Public Library is a public library system serving the borough of Queens in New York City, with three branches including the central library in Jamaica.

The details

QPL's IT department is working to resolve the outage, which has disabled renewals and on-site computers across its system. The library states that it does not charge fines for late returns, a policy it adopted in October 2021 alongside two other New York libraries.

October 2021: QPL and two other New York libraries permanently ended daily late fines.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026: QPL confirmed the ransomware attack via social media and patron notices.

Seasonal Patterns

The British Library suffered a Rhysida ransomware attack in 2023 and was still publishing reports on incomplete electronic resource recovery in July 2026. The Queens attack follows that precedent, in which a public library's digital systems remain disrupted for an extended period.

Patrons cannot renew materials online or use library Wi-Fi, computers or the mobile app until the systems are restored. Late returns carry no fines, so borrowers face no penalty for delays during the outage.

The takeaway

Public institutions holding patron data remain exposed to ransomware, and the Queens and British Library cases show that restoring digital services can take many months. Patrons should expect physical branches to stay open while online access is limited.