Libraries are Trusted Public Institutions for Election Information

Public libraries offer more resources than access to books—they are civic institutions that help you get registered, informed, and access the ballot on election day.

As a voter, you can trust your librarian to provide you with the tools and resources you need to be prepared to vote on November 5, 2024. Librarians are trained in research and reference methods to help prevent political misinformation and disinformation. With the rise of AI technology and its use on social media platforms, it is important to be able to learn media literacy skills at your local library to identify truthful and accurate information before you go to the ballot. The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) recommends that you consider the source, read beyond headlines, and ask experts (including librarians) to fact-check information to verify its accuracy.

Here are some resources that your local library may offer you so that you can be prepared to vote: 

• Media literacy skills to identify political misinformation and disinformation 
• Nonpartisan and local candidate guides
• Programming related to the election, including candidate forums and programs to bridge community divides
• Voter registration forms and information
• Election information for voters with disabilities
• Information about local ballot measures, including issues that might affect your local library or public schools

Head to your local library to find nonpartisan voting information from the most trusted source in your neighborhood. Beyond traditional library services like reliable Internet access, books and programming for all ages, and serving as a third space, public libraries promote and protect democracy by making the ballot more accessible to all voters.