Returning a mail ballot will be more convenient for Johnson County voters this election season.
For the first time, every Johnson County Library branch will have an official ballot drop box as part of the Library’s longstanding partnership with Johnson County Election Office. The expansion places secure ballot drop boxes at all 14 Library locations, making it easier for residents across the county to participate in the voting process. Olathe Public Library, a separate system, does not have drop boxes at this time.
Election workers will unlock the drop boxes on the first day of advance voting, July 15, and lock them after voting ends. The Johnson County Election Office is responsible for collecting ballots and maintaining the secure drop boxes throughout the election period.
The expanded access comes as Kansas voters face a recent change to state law requiring mail ballots to be received by the close of polls on Election Day. Previously, some ballots postmarked by Election Day could still be counted if they arrived within the grace period.
“With the elimination of the grace period for mail-in ballots, having drop boxes at all Johnson County Library branches provides a convenient way for voters to return their ballots on time,” said Regional Librarian Hilary Sorio.
Several branches already serve as advance voting or Election Day polling places. Adding ballot drop boxes to every branch creates a consistent experience for voters while reducing confusion about where ballots can be returned. It also shortens travel distances for residents in less-populated areas of the county.
Most drop boxes are located near Library entrances. At the Lenexa City Center Library, the drop box is located near the second-floor parking garage entrance. Library staff can help visitors locate the drop boxes, though election officials recommend voters also watch for information included with their mail ballots about when ballots may be returned.
In addition to providing ballot drop boxes, the Library continues to support civic engagement by offering free access to reliable, nonpartisan election information. Residents can use books, newspapers, periodicals and online resources to research candidates and ballot measures. Library computers are available for public use, and staff can assist patrons in locating election information. Voter registration forms are also available, and many branches host candidate forums in partnership with the Johnson County Post and other civic events.
“Libraries are open to all,” Sorio said. “We support elections by providing services to everyone and by helping ensure participation in civic processes is easy for voters.”
Voters should keep several important election deadlines in mind. The deadline to register to vote or update voter registration is July 14. Advance voting begins July 15, when mail ballots will also be sent to voters who requested them. The deadline to apply for a mail ballot is July 28. Primary Election Day is Aug. 4, and completed mail ballots must be received by poll closing that day to be counted – typically 7 p.m. for most elections.
With ballot drop boxes now available at every branch, voters have more convenient access than ever to securely return their ballots before Election Day. Explore elections and voting resources at jocolibrary.org.
