Voter registration events next week

The League of Women Voters of Kootenai County is joining with the Community Library Network to offer public voter registration events Thursday, April 6, at four local libraries: Athol, Hayden, Rathdrum and Post Falls.

The League of Women Voters’ primary mission is to register voters. The libraries will have information about in-person and e-services, as well as upcoming programs for children, teens and adults. Library staff members will be available to answer questions, help people obtain library cards and direct members to additional community resources.

League of Women Voters member Jennifer Luoma of Bayview said the registration events are special because rural libraries will be supported in this coordinated effort.  

"Getting registered to vote is just the first step in getting #VoteReady!" she said. "Making a plan to vote and knowing what’s on the ballot is all part of what will ensure everyone has their voice heard at the ballot box this May.”

League of Women Voters and American Association of University Women member Darleen Sheldon, who was an integral founding force of what is now known as the Community Library Network, agrees these efforts are important.

Sheldon and her husband live in Coeur d’Alene, but as a sixth-generation Idahoan from Worley, Sheldon initiated the first library bookmobile more than 50 years ago so her young child and the children of her neighbors and friends could access books and learning materials.

With her 2-year-old baby on her hip, Sheldon went door to door in rural Worley and other parts of Kootenai County to gather petition signatures that were brought to Kootenai County commissioners, who appointed her as a founding trustee.

“We worked hard to get access to books and materials, and we don’t want to lose it," Sheldon said. "Fifty years ago, just like now, our libraries provide access to all community members. In rural communities, where bookstores are less common, and the cost of books may be prohibitive, public libraries are essential. Our libraries provide information and learning programs to residents on a variety of topics and at multiple levels of expertise. It’s very important to have informed voters support competent Community Library Network trustees in the upcoming May 16 election.” 

Residents are encouraged to visit the following libraries from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday:

• Athol Library, 30399 N. Third St., Athol

• Hayden Library, 8385 N. Government Way, Hayden

• Rathdrum Library, 16320 Highway 41, Rathdrum

• Post Falls Library, at 821 N. Spokane St., Post Falls

Residents are also encouraged to visit the Kootenai County Elections Office at 1808 N. Third St., Coeur d’Alene.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging active participation in government through informed voting. It influences public policy through education and advocacy. The League’s policy is to never support or oppose any political party or candidate. Membership is open to men and women of all ages.

Info: my.lwv.org/idaho/local-leagues/kootenai-county