The Aurora Public Library District (APLD) is committed to empowering our community by providing valuable resources, especially when it comes to civic engagement. One of the most important offerings right now is our Voter Resources page, designed to help both first-time voters and ballot regulars navigate the election process with ease and confidence.
Voting is the foundation of democracy, and being an informed voter ensures that your voice has the greatest impact. Our website (aurorapubliclibrary.org/voters) offers a comprehensive collection of information to make sure you’re well-prepared for upcoming and future elections. “Community members will be equipped with the information and knowledge they may need to fully and meaningfully participate in our democracy,” said Genealogy and community history librarian Cailín Cullen. Whether you need help registering to vote, locating your polling place, or understanding the issues and candidates, the library’s Voter Resources page and our educated staff has you covered.
Cullen recalls a customer story from the 2022 midterm election. “On the night before Election Day, a customer visited Santori Library to attend a computer class. After class, she asked me how she could vote. I helped her find her polling place using our computer kiosk, wrote down the address for her, and showed her where it was on Google Maps. I asked if she was registered, and she was not. I assured her that she could register at her polling place on Election Day, and that she would need two forms of ID to register. I told her that if she had any trouble, she should ask for a provisional ballot. She was very grateful, and I am hopeful that she was able to vote!” What a wonderful example of our resources in action!
One of the highlights of the Voter Resources page is its simple access to voter registration information. Whether you’re registering for the first time, updating your address, or verifying your registration status, you can easily find the steps you need to take, complete with direct links to official registration portals. This year, APLD is participating in National Voter Registration Day Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Santori Library. This bilingual, family-friendly event is all about civic engagement and voter registration. We will have a green screen photo-op at the White House, a voting equipment demonstration courtesy of Kane County Clerk’s Office, a drawing prize basket for those who register to vote, snacks, activities, and more! You can also register to vote in-person at all library locations (dependent on staff availability) through October 8! This convenience is especially helpful for busy residents or those who might be unsure of where to begin.
On the Voter Resources page, you’ll also find access to voter guides that break down the issues and candidates, giving you clear, unbiased information. This is essential in an era where misinformation can easily cloud judgment, helping you cut through the noise to focus on facts. “Our goal is to boast civic literacy in our community, provide access to information, and support those who want to be civically engaged in their community,” said Cullen. To help achieve this goal, the Santori Library is holding a ‘Fact-Checking Your Feed’ program on Monday, Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. to teach you how to spot dubious posts, identify AI-generated media, and independently verify information online.
The APLD’s Voter Resources page is a one-stop-shop for everything you need to make informed decisions during elections. By utilizing these tools, you can confidently take part in the democratic process, knowing that your vote counts. Visit the Aurora Public Library District’s website at www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/voters to learn more.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.