Queens Public Library was hit by a ransomware attack on Wednesday, Nov. 4, leaving its website, app, in-branch computers and free Wi-Fi out of service through Thursday afternoon, Nov. 5. All branches remain open, and patrons can borrow and return items in person. No late fees will be charged. Who is behind the attack, and whether any patron information was exposed, has not yet been determined.
According to Gothamist, the Queens Public Library network was hit by a ransomware attack on Wednesday, Nov. 4. Ransomware is malicious software that locks a system and demands payment. The resulting network outage continued through Thursday afternoon, Nov. 5, and the library said recovery could take time. All branches opened as normal.
According to a notice the library posted on social media, its website, public-use computers in branches, self-service checkout and return machines, and free Wi-Fi are unavailable. The library app and digital media services are also down. Gothamist reported that the disruption was still continuing as of Thursday afternoon.
Dennis Walcott, the library's president and CEO, told Gothamist that the library is working closely with law enforcement agencies, including the NYPD and the FBI, to resolve the problem. He said the investigation is ongoing and that it is not yet known who is behind the attack, why Queens Public Library was targeted, or whether patron information was put at risk.
According to Walcott, patrons can visit their nearest branch in person to borrow and return books. However, loan renewals are not available, and no late fees will be charged on books or materials that come due. Online and in-person programs may be limited while systems are being restored, so patrons should check with the relevant branch before attending.
Queens Public Library has 66 branches across Queens. It also operates seven Adult Learning Centers, a Teen Center, a Bookmobile and a Book Bicycle. For now, the most reliable way for Queens library users to get information is to contact their branch directly rather than use the website or app. Because it has not been officially confirmed whether any data was exposed, patrons should watch for further announcements from the library.