Voters in 2024 will face an unprecedented number of voting restrictions in more than half of the states, according to a report by the Brennan Center for Justice.

These barriers, prompted by restrictive legislation, include limiting voter access to polling places, criminalization bills for assistance with absentee voting, proof of citizenship requirements, restrictive voter ID laws that place unnecessary burdens on election officials, and new rules surrounding voter registration. 

These restrictions have especially been shown to impact voter turnout among historically disenfranchised and marginalized communities. As inherently civic institutions, public libraries like yours are responsible for providing accurate election information to ensure that voters can cast their ballots and participate in Democracy. 

Since each state has different requirements related to voter ID laws, voter registration, mail-in ballots, and absentee voting, check with your local and state election officials to obtain the most up-to-date information ahead of the election. Additionally, our partners at Vote 411 provide state-by-state voting rules that librarians can use to promote civic engagement in your community.

One of the most prevalent barriers to accessing the ballot is the state-by-state voter ID requirements. Each state has its own laws governing voter ID requirements for citizens to cast a ballot. It's crucial for your public library to make local voting rules easily accessible within your space, ensuring that community members are well-informed and prepared for election day.