Fall is almost here and that means election time! Elections are extremely important in our system of government and who we choose determines the direction of our country not only for the next four years, but much longer. Therefore, your vote is critical!

Here at Benson Memorial Library we are prepared to assist anyone who needs help preparing to vote. Before you can vote, you must be registered. If you have not already registered to vote and want to vote in the presidential election, you must be registered at least 30 days prior to the election. This year, the election is Tuesday, November 8th. In order to vote, you must be registered by Tuesday, October 11th.

There are many ways you can register to vote. The simplest way is online – almost brand new in Pennsylvania and works like a charm! If you click on the link in this sentence, it will take you to the online voter registration page. If you register online, your registration should be approved within a few days and a voter registration card will be mailed to you.

If you need any assistance at all getting on the computer, the website, completing the form, or anything else, stop into the library and we will help you get registered!

If you don’t like to submit things online or just prefer pen and paper, you can also complete the voter registration form the traditional way. If you click on the link in this sentence, it will take you to the page where you can print out a paper copy of the voter registration form. Again, if you need any help with this, we can assist you here at Benson.

Another important part of voting is your polling place. There is only one place you may vote on election day – your specific polling place as determined by your address. Many of these places are fire halls, churches, and other public buildings. If you do not know where your polling place is located, click on the link in the sentence to find out. The page will request your county and address. Then it will inform you of where you are to cast your vote on November 8th!

Finally, some people are unable to get to their polling place on election day. If that is the case, you can apply for an absentee ballot. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot in Pennsylvania is November 1st. If you click on this sentence, the link will take you to the printable form to apply for an absentee ballot. The deadline to submit your absentee ballot is November 4th (so, if you don’t apply for your ballot until the 1st, chances are you won’t be able to submit it by the deadline – so do it as early as possible!).

Finally, if you think you are already registered to vote, but want to be sure, click on the link in this sentence to find out. 

Don’t waste your vote this November – many have fought and died not only so that we can choose our leaders, but so that ALL citizens eighteen years of age and older are imbued with the right to choose, regardless of their color or creed. Come together with your fellow citizens this November and vote! And if nothing else, do it for the sticker.

If you have any further questions feel free to email us here at Benson or stop in! We are all happy to help.