New York's Queens Public Library has confirmed it is battling a ransomware attack that has shut down its website, public Wi-Fi, on-site computers and checkout machines across the borough.

The library, which runs 66 branches serving about 2.3 million residents, confirmed the attack on Wednesday evening through social media and messages to patrons, after first warning of a network outage earlier in the day.

What is down — and what still works

The disruption has taken down the library's website, its mobile app, digital media services, public Wi-Fi, on-site computers and its check-out and return machines. Renewals are also unavailable, although the library says customers will not be charged late fines for returning materials late.

All 66 locations remain open as scheduled, including the central library in Jamaica, Queens. Some virtual and in-person programmes may be affected, and the library says it will take some time before its network and systems are fully restored. Its website was still unreachable at noon on Thursday.

No gang has claimed the attack

No established ransomware group had claimed responsibility as of Thursday evening. The library has not said whether a ransom was demanded or whether any patron data was accessed.

The library says it is working closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to address the situation and will keep the public informed.

Sources: The Register, Queens Public Library hit by ransomware attack, 5 November 2026; The Record, Queens Public Library says ransomware attack disrupted Wi-Fi, on-site computers, 5 November 2026.