Queens Public Library hit by ransomware attack
The gist
Queens Public Library reported a ransomware attack that took down its website, Wi-Fi and checkout machines at all 66 branches.
Some services are back, but the website and computers remain down with no full-restore date.
How it unfolded
- Nov 4, 2026Queens Public Library first reported a systemwide network outage in the afternoon, affecting its website, app, checkout and return machines, renewals, on-site computers and free Wi-Fi at all 66 branches. Hours later it confirmed the cause was a ransomware attack.
- Nov 5, 2026Services were still unavailable as of Thursday morning, QPL president and CEO Dennis Walcott said in a statement. No ransomware gang had taken credit as of Thursday evening.
- Nov 6, 2026Reporting said the website, on-site computers, free Wi-Fi, mobile app and digital media services were impacted, with checkout and return machines still unavailable and late fees waived.
Key terms
- ransomware
- Malware that holds a victim's data hostage, often by encryption, until a ransom is paid.
- NYPD
- The primary municipal law enforcement agency of New York City, one of the oldest and largest police departments in the United States.
- City Hall
- The building that houses a city's government, including the mayor's office and council chambers.
Source: Wikipedia