Get a Document Notarized Free at Brooklyn Public Library

Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) provides free notary public service by appointment at select branches across Brooklyn. This service is available to anyone age 18 or older who needs basic documents notarized, making it a valuable resource for residents seeking to avoid notary fees. Here’s how to make the most of BPL’s notary service, what to bring, and what to expect.

Where and How to Book a Free Notary Appointment

Notary service is not available at every Brooklyn Public Library branch, and participating locations can change. To use the service, you must book an appointment online through BPL’s official notary reservation page. Walk-ins are not accepted, and you cannot book by phone or in person.

• Check current locations and times: Visit the BPL notary reservations page for up-to-date information on which branches offer notary appointments and their availability.
• Book online: Only the person who needs the document notarized (the signer) can book the appointment. You must use your own name and contact information.
• Arrive on time: Arriving more than 10 minutes late may result in your appointment being canceled.
• Limitations: Each person is limited to three notarizations per day.

What to Bring: Document and ID Checklist

To avoid a wasted trip, prepare the following before your appointment:

• Valid government-issued photo ID: Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or other government photo identification. The name on your ID must match the name on your document.
• Complete, original documents: Bring the entire document, not just the signature page. Documents must be in English and must not be signed before your appointment. The notary must witness your signature.
• Unsigned documents: Do not sign your document in advance. The notary must see you sign it in person.
• Any required witnesses: If your document requires witnesses, you must bring them with you. The library does not provide witnesses, and staff cannot serve as witnesses.

Which Documents Can and Cannot Be Notarized

BPL’s notary service is designed for basic notarizations. Some documents are excluded due to legal complexity or policy. The following cannot be notarized at BPL:

• Wills
• Trusts
• Powers of attorney
• Depositions
• I-9 employment eligibility forms
• Vital records (birth, marriage, death certificates)
• Real estate documents (including deeds, titles, liens, releases)
• Certified copies of any documents

If you are unsure whether your document qualifies, check the BPL notary reservations page or contact the branch before booking.

What the Notary Can and Cannot Do

BPL notaries are authorized to:

• Verify your identity
• Witness your signature
• Complete the notarial certificate on your document

They cannot:

• Provide legal advice or explain your document
• Translate documents
• Print or copy documents for you
• Supply witnesses

If you need legal advice or have questions about the content of your document, consult a licensed attorney before your appointment.

Appointment Timing and Process

• Arrive prepared: Bring your ID, unsigned document, and any required witnesses.
• Check in: Arrive at least a few minutes early. If you are more than 10 minutes late, your appointment may be canceled and you will need to rebook.
• Sign in front of the notary: Do not sign your document until the notary instructs you to do so.
• Limit per day: You may have up to three documents notarized per day.

Notarization vs. Legal Advice

A notary public’s role is to verify your identity and witness your signature—not to review, interpret, or advise on the legal effect of your document. If you need help understanding your document, seek legal counsel before your appointment. The library’s notaries cannot answer legal questions or help you fill out forms.

How to Check Availability and Book

Because participating branches and appointment slots change, always use the live BPL notary reservation page to:

• View current locations and available times
• Book your appointment
• Review the latest service policies

If you need to cancel or reschedule, use the instructions provided in your confirmation email.

Before you go

• Confirm your branch and appointment time on the BPL notary reservation page.
• Bring a valid government photo ID and your unsigned, complete English-language document.
• Check if your document is eligible for notarization at BPL.
• Bring any required witnesses—library staff cannot serve as witnesses.
• Arrive on time to avoid cancellation.

For the most current information and to book your free notary appointment, visit the Brooklyn Public Library’s notary reservations page.