In-Person Early Voting at the Library

If you have trouble getting to the polls on Election Day, try early voting!

It’s another election year, so it’s time to start putting together a plan to cast your vote. Polling places tend to be extremely busy on the day of the election, which might make it difficult for some people to vote. The easiest solution is casting your vote early at your local library. Here’s everything you need to know to do just that.

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How Does Early Voting Work?

Most states offer an early voting period, allowing voters to do their civic duty at different times and avoid overcrowding. This early voting period depends on your state of residence, ranging from less than a week to over a month. 

The method of voting also varies by state. You may have to submit a mail-in ballot, show up in person as you would on Election Day, or choose between one of these two methods. Regardless, just fill out and submit your ballot, and your vote will be counted come Election Day.

Be sure to check for info on polling places once early voting opens. Many public institutions, including schools and libraries, will be used as polling places during the early voting season. Figure out which polling place is most convenient for you to visit, and plan ahead to cast your ballot without having to worry about the crowds.

Send an email to your Representatives to show your support for libraries!

Why Your Vote Matters

There’s a common misconception that becomes more popular every time an election happens, and that’s the idea that your individual vote doesn’t matter. That’s not to say that we don’t understand why people believe this—after all, how much can one person among three hundred million do to move the needle? We believe that looking at your vote based on its ability to change election results is the wrong way to view the electoral process.

While individual votes do matter, what matters much more is exercising your rights as an American citizen, showing interest and support for the issues and candidates you favor, and making your voice heard in the polls. No matter who ends up in office this November, casting your vote ensures that you’re able to do all of these things. No matter what you believe or who you support, we encourage you to get out there and vote this year to ensure a brighter future for the next four.

If you’d like to get more information regarding current events and the role that libraries play in them, check out the rest of the stories on the EveryLibrary Medium site today!

Visit www.everylibrary.org to learn more about our work on behalf of libraries. 

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