Take Advantage of Your Library’s Election Resources

National Voter Registration Day, observed annually on a designated Tuesday in September, serves as a timely reminder to check your election readiness—whether or not it’s a presidential election year. In 2025, the day falls on September 16, offering an opportunity to stay engaged in the democratic process and prepare for upcoming local and state elections.

These elections shape our communities in tangible ways, determining who becomes school board members, who gets elected to the city council, and who becomes state legislators. Arguably, these officials directly influence our daily lives more than national election winners, making it important to stay engaged. 

When it comes to voting, public libraries continue to function as trusted community hubs, offering accessible resources and guidance to support all voters in making informed decisions and participating fully in democracy.

Take action today to support libraries!

Your Nonpartisan Information Hub

Public libraries act as nonpartisan information hubs, offering access to unbiased information on the voting process. They provide dependable platforms for voters to obtain trustworthy resources and ask any questions they may have about how to participate. 

Across the country, libraries work to ensure that all citizens have the information needed to vote wisely. They do this in several ways. First, many libraries curate digital tools that connect voters to official election resources. For instance, the Wyckoff Public Library in New Jersey maintains a dedicated webpage linking patrons to sample ballots, polling locations, registration deadlines, and other essential details.

Libraries also help voters navigate candidate platforms and complex ballot measures. The Billings Public Library in Montana, for example, offers digital resources that clarify candidate positions and explain ballot initiatives—empowering residents to make informed decisions, whether voting in person or by mail. 

From Registration to Casting Your Ballot 

Libraries undoubtedly play a vital role in providing access to unbiased information, helping patrons understand the voting process, facilitating voter registration, and offering direct assistance to those preparing to vote. For instance, the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library in Kansas hosts annual events where residents can register to vote or update their registration with support from trained library staff. 

Beyond registration, library buildings serve as integral components of election infrastructure. The King County Library System in Washington, for example, operates multiple branches as secure drop-off locations for mail-in ballots—facilitating both early voting and Election Day participation.

Ultimately, public libraries help eliminate barriers to voting by offering reliable information and hands-on support, empowering all citizens to engage fully in the democratic process.

Sign the pledge to vote for libraries!

Strengthening Democracy, One Library at a Time 

Public libraries empower voters by offering reliable and nonpartisan information, hosting registration drives, providing ballot access, and serving as polling locations. They are more than just book repositories—they strengthen democracy by making the voting process more accessible and fostering informed civic participation. 

In order to make the most of this valuable resource, you can:

1. Get Informed. Visit your local library's website or stop by in person to explore their election resources.
2. Get Ready. Take a moment today to check your voter registration status online.
3. Get Registered. If you're not registered or need to update your address, use the resources your library provides to get it done!
4. Pledge Your Support. Show your appreciation for these essential community hubs by signing EveryLibrary’s pledge to vote for libraries, ensuring they can continue their vital work for years to come.

Whether you’re casting your first ballot or your fiftieth, your neighborhood library is ready to help you show up informed, empowered, and prepared to vote.

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

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