Civics & Voting
Library resources can help you get registered to vote, find polling places, learn about candidates and elected officials, access fact‑checking tools and track legislation. View the library's calendar for civics and voting programming.
Important 2026 Election Dates
- September 24: First day to vote early or by mail.
- October 18: Deadline to register to vote online.
- October 29: Last day for election authorities to receive vote-by-mail applications.
- November 3: Illinois General Election
Register & Learn
To register you must:
- Be a United States Citizen.
- Be at least 17 years old on or before the date of the Primary Election and turn 18 on or before the date of the General or Consolidated Election (16-year-olds may preregister to vote).
- Live in your election precinct at least 30 days prior to Election Day.
- Not be serving a sentence of confinement in any penal institution because of a conviction.
- Not claim the right to vote anywhere else.
Voting Resources
Voting Resources
- Access your voter information to find your early voting site, discover your polling location, learn about your ballot status and to see a sample ballot.
- Find your elected officials at the local, state and federal levels.
- Learn about the candidates from their websites, social media, press, endorsers and Board of Elections for comprehensive, nonpartisan information about the candidates and referendums on your ballot.
- Learn about the judicial candidates around Cook County.
Fact Checking Websites
Fact Checking Websites
- Ballotpedia Illinois is a nonpartisan and nonprofit online encyclopedia of American politics and elections.
- AP Fact Check debunks false and misleading claims.
- OpenSecrets breaks down campaign contributions to political candidates and from organizations.
Follow the Legislative Process
Follow the Legislative Process
- Follow state law at the Illinois General Assembly and track bills with their Legislative Reports.
- Track federal legislation in both the House of Representatives and Senate at Congress.gov.
- Congressional Research Service Reports from the Library of Congress examine issues from all perspectives to inform lawmakers throughout the process of drafting, debating, passing and enacting legislation.