On March 31, President Trump signed an Executive Order targeting voting by mail. While the policy raises significant concerns about the integrity and conduct of elections, it is important to clarify its immediate impact on election administration, particularly for libraries.

This Executive Order does not change state election laws or the statutory responsibilities of public institutions, including public libraries that support the administration of elections and access to the polls.

Public libraries across the United States have a longstanding and legally recognized role in supporting the administration of elections and ensuring voter access. Depending on state law and local practice, libraries serve as voter registration sites, provide access to registration forms and absentee or vote-by-mail applications, offer secure internet access for election information and ballot tracking, and in some jurisdictions function as polling places or ballot drop-off locations. In certain states, public library staff are mandated voter registrars. These responsibilities are embedded in state election codes, administrative rules, and local government partnerships.

At this time, the EveryLibrary Institute does not believe that libraries should change their practices in response to this Executive Order. State law governs voter eligibility, registration processes, and voting methods, including vote-by-mail. Any changes to those systems must come through state legislative or administrative action, not federal directives alone.

Libraries should continue to provide voter registration assistance in accordance with state law, offer access to vote-by-mail applications and information according to state law, support voters in making a plan to vote, including by mail where permitted by state law, and maintain access to official nonpartisan election information for Election Days within their jurisdictions. Libraries should continue to partner with local election officials as required or requested. For voters, if you are eligible to vote by mail in your state, you can still do so. We encourage voters to request and return their mail ballots as early as possible to ensure timely processing and to avoid potential postal delays.

Through VoteLibraries.org, the EveryLibrary Institute has documented, supported, and elevated libraries' roles in voter registration, election information access, and ballot participation nationwide. The site reflects the breadth of state-by-state practices and reinforces that libraries are a consistent, reliable partner in election administration across the country. Libraries’ role in elections is grounded in neutrality, access, and service to all eligible voters. Library staff do not advocate for candidates or parties; they ensure that every eligible voter has the information and tools needed to participate in the democratic process.

Finally, regarding the President’s Executive Order of March 31, 2026, it is important to note that several national voting rights organizations have already filed legal challenges in court, arguing that it constitutes unlawful federal interference in election administration. Legal experts and courts have consistently affirmed that the authority to regulate elections rests with the states and Congress, not the executive branch alone. Stakeholders who wish to follow the status of this litigation and better understand the legal issues can review ongoing analysis and case materials from organizations like the Brennan Center for Justice, and should stay informed as the case proceeds.