By Lynn Horsley

As Johnson County, the Kansas City region and the U.S. prepare for a crucial election on Nov. 5, Johnson County Library reminds the community that it is a trusted, non-partisan resource for free access to local and national voter information.

Patrons can educate themselves about the candidates and issues through books, periodicals, newspapers and online news outlets with no paywall. They can also attend candidate forums, enjoy debate watch parties, pick up voter guides, register to vote and cast their ballots.

Voter information boards are displayed at all branches, with important dates and other reminders. Some Library branches serve as polling places and also have secure ballot drop boxes.

“We try to take a really positive and encouraging spin on supporting voters,” said Program Coordinator Ashley Fick, who has overseen the Library’s civic engagement programming for 11 years. “We want voting to feel accessible, not overwhelming. We’re here to help make the entire process easy.”

For the 2024 General Election, the Library will provide online resources about the Kansas 3rd Congressional District; state Senate and House races; and the Johnson County District Attorney, Sheriff and three district county commissioner races. The Library will also provide the Kansas City Media Collective’s voter guide online and in print at all branches.

A Presidential Debate Watch Party is scheduled Sept. 10 at Central Resource Library. All ages are welcome. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and people must arrive before doors close at 8 p.m. The event will include popcorn and Debate Bingo cards.

Once election season ends, the Library continues to provide information and exposure to elected officials and a wide variety of viewpoints. They host well-attended legislative coffees where patrons ask questions and elected representatives get valuable constituent feedback. It’s another way that the Library fulfills its commitment to connect community members in a positive way, over local issues that matter.

For more information on election resources at your Johnson County Library branch, call 913-826-4600 or visit jocolibrary.org/community-matters.

Lynn Horsley is a freelance contributor to Johnson County Library.