I like to think of myself as 😎🆒 but I'm also not-so-secretly ☝🤓.
When I was in elementary school, if our class had one of those workbooks that accompany a math or reading textbook I would start working ahead as soon as I figured out the teacher's pattern for assigning workbook pages. After awhile I had finished everything we could expect to have assigned for the semester so I could sit back and chill knowing I already had my homework done far in advance. Yes, I am that cool.
And I have carried that particular brand of coolness with me all my life. For example, voting. By the time you're reading this my ballot has already been filled out and dropped off. But let's say you have a real life with adult obligations and are not compulsively over-prepared to the point of being insufferable like me. If so, here are some helpful answers to common questions about the upcoming election and resources available at your library.
Can I still register to vote?
You still have time! Print and mail a registration form or visit https://voter.votewa.gov/ to register, or to update your registration online by October 28.
I missed the deadline. Now what?
You're not out of luck, but you will need to register to vote in-person. Visit your nearest Voting Center to register in-person before 8:00 PM on Election Day, Tuesday November 5th.
Thurston County residents can visit the Voting Center at the Lacey Timberland Library beginning October 28th. Elections staff from the Thurston County Auditor’s Office will be available Monday-Friday from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. The Lacey Library will be open special extended hours on Election Day (11/5) from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM to accommodate same-day registrants.
Voter Assistance, including help with registration and printing a ballot will also be available at the Olympia, Tenino, Tumwater and Yelm libraries beginning Friday, November 1st. For complete hours see page 93 of your Voters' Pamplet or click here, opens a new window.
Can I wait until the very last minute?
Yes, but try not to if you can.
TRL has been partnering with the Thurston County Auditor to provide voter assistance at TRL libraries since 2019. In recent election cycles we have been excited to host a Voting Center at the Lacey Library and have seen incredible demand for same-day registration. This election promises to be much busier so plan ahead to avoid long lines if you do need to visit a Voting Center.
What if I just need to print a replacement ballot or update my registration?
You can do all of that online at VoteWA.gov Need help? Visit your local TRL branch for assistance.
Additionally, all TRL libraries in Thurston County will be open on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5th) from 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Library staff can help you print your ballot if you have previously registered and need a replacement. If you still need to register after the 10/28 deadline we can help with that too! Library staff and the Thurston County Elections team are working together to assist with same-day registration at all Thurston County libraries.
Voter Assistance, including help with registration and printing a ballot will also be available at the Olympia, Tenino, Tumwater and Yelm libraries beginning Friday, November 1st. For complete hours see page 93 of your Voters' Pamphlet or click here, opens a new window.
Where can I drop my ballot?
Ballot drop boxes can be found around the district at the following Timberland Library locations:
Lacey (located next door at City Hall)
Visit the Washington Secretary of State's website to find additional ballot drop boxes and voting center locations in your local area.
Bonus: All Thurston County libraries will have ballot boxes available beginning Friday, November 1st through Election Day!
I need to do my research. Where can I find voters’ guides?
Copies of voters' guides can be found at many branches, or use a public computer at your local branch to access voter guides online. Feel free to visit or call your local branch for additional information.
Further information about the election, such as voters’ guides, ballot box locations, and county election office contact information, can be found at the following links:
Washington Secretary of State - Elections
Grays Harbor County Auditor's Office
Pacific County Auditor's Office
Thurston County Auditor's Office
Still have questions? Contact your local library or email us at asklib@trl.org.
