“Voting is the foundation stone of political action.” — Martin Luther King Jr., Baptist minister and internationally known non-violent activist (b. 1/15/29, d. 4/4/68).
National Voter Registration Day is September 17. Voting is both a privilege and a responsibility for U.S. citizens, yet turnout in national elections is consistently below two-thirds of eligible voters. Participation in state and local elections is often even lower, and the rates for various demographic groups tend to lag behind.
Libraries are frequently celebrated for their vital role in supporting democracy. What does that look like in action? While nonpartisan, libraries are far from indifferent. They provide access to information, resources, programs, and public spaces that support all members of the community, making them essential to civic engagement. As we approach a new series of local, state, and national elections, every eligible American should be informed, registered, and ready to vote.
Join the campaign to ensure every community is **Reader, Voter, Ready**. Resources are available at your local libraries and online through platforms like **MyVoteWisconsin**.
September 17 is particularly significant—it’s the anniversary of that day in 1787 when the Constitutional Convention signed the final draft of the U.S. Constitution. Almost a year later, the document was ratified by New Hampshire, the ninth state required for it to go into effect. On September 25, 1789, the first twelve amendments, now known as the Bill of Rights, were introduced under President George Washington.
Whether you need a free library card—it is Library Card Sign-Up Month after all—help with voter registration, or just want to learn more about our nation’s history, your library is here for you. Stop by and check us out.
“The Constitution has sheltered us from those who would destroy freedom, but the fortress is incredibly fragile because it is only as strong as our devotion and allegiance.” — Justice Janice Rogers Brown, 2005 Appointee to the US Court of Appeals.