В библиотеке Де-Калба мероприятие по регистрации избирателей прошло без единого участника

DeKALB – On Tuesday, the DeKalb Public Library hosted a promotional event encouraging DeKalb residents to register to vote. Lasting from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the event came to an end after no one participated. The library has been hosting a series of events for the America 250 initiative. Numerous events that are a part of this initiative urge people to get out and vote.  Amy Freeman, Adult Services librarian at the DeKalb Public Library said that registering to vote and partaking in the voting process to be very important. “It’s important to get out and show that you care as early as possible, and it’s important to stand up for what you believe in and show people that you’re serious, and I think registering to vote and then going out and actually doing it is a great way to do that,” she said.  Freeman said that she intended for the event to be very simple. She wanted to ensure that people who had any questions about voting or registering would be able to get answers right there.  “It is really just a walk-in event where people can come and register to vote. It really is that simple,” Freeman said. “I also have a representative from the County Clerk and Recorder’s office coming, so she can answer any questions you have about the upcoming election.” Although the event was structured to be simple and easy, the event had no participants. However, there are future events that are taking place to get more people registered to vote. “If you can’t make the one on Sept. 8, we have one on Sept. 29 as well. The last day to register to vote by mail is Oct. 29, and the last day for online registration is October 18. So, it’s best to get in early, do it as soon as you can, so that you’re sure you know exactly that you’re registered to vote and know where you can vote,” Freeman said.  Freeman also advises residents to be aware of the documentation needed for registration. If someone does not have a driver’s license, they can still register. Those interested are also able to register even if they are from out of town or state, as long as they can provide proof of a local address. “Bring proof that you live somewhere. I have an electric bill, I have a State ID and I have my XYZ check with my address on it. We do our best to make sure people can register to vote. We do have some guidelines, so bring as many pieces of documentation as possible to prove you live where you are,” Freeman said. The library hopes to host  more events with the America 250 initiative, and increase voter turnout. The next voter registration event is set to take place from  4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sept. 29. The Illinois voter registration application can also be found online.  The general election in Illinois is set to take place on Nov. 3.