As the midterm elections draw near, the library wants to remind you to get out and vote! I recently had the opportunity to speak with Donna Zimmerman, Barton County Clerk and Election Officer, to learn how the local offices make voting as accessible as possible. Although polling locations are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. on election day (Tuesday, November 6), some voters may wish to vote earlier. For those who wish to cast their ballot before Tuesday, early voting is an option. Advance voting by mail has already closed, but you may still vote early in-person by visiting the county election office, which is located in room 202 of the Barton County Courthouse at 1400 Main Street in Great Bend. You may stop by to vote between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., but early voting will close at 12 noon on Monday, November 5. The election offices are normally closed on weekends, but will be open for special hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 3 to help assist early voters this weekend. 

Keep in mind that whether you are voting early or on election day, you will need a valid photo ID in order to vote. This includes a state driver’s license, U.S. passport, or college ID, among other things. To view a complete list of accepted identification, visit www.gotvoterID.com. This website also offers information on how to obtain a free photo ID card from KS Division of Vehicles if you do not own a valid photo ID. 

Zimmerman noted that there have been some questions recently from voters concerning the consolidation of voting locations. She said that mailings were sent out to only those voters that would be affected by the change. If you did not receive a mailing notifying you of a change to your polling place, you can plan to vote where you have always voted. If you would like to double-check your location, you can go online to myvoteinfo.voteks.org. There you can search by either personal information or residential address to verify your voting location, view registration information, and take a look at a sample ballot.

If you have any further questions about the election and voting process, you are welcome to contact the Barton County election office at 620-793-1835. 

In the library, we have lots of activities coming up for all ages: see the schedule below for a listing. For more detailed information on any library events, programs, or resources, check out our website , send us an email (gbcirc@greatbendpl.info), or call the circ desk (620-792-2409). You can also “like” and follow GBPL on Facebook. 

Michael Adamyk is the Marketing and Technical Services Manager at the Great Bend Public Library. He can be reached by email at gbcirc@gmail.com.