Another election season is upon us, with the General Primary Election coming up Tuesday, March 17, 2026. From voting to navigating conversations with friends and family, Chillicothe Public Library is here to support you as you engage in democracy.

If you are eligible to vote in Illinois, you can register online at ova.elections.il.gov. Access this site at home, or come use the library’s public computers. If you would rather register in person, using a paper application, we have a deputy registrar on site! You can make an appointment with Alyce Jackson by calling 309-274-2719. To register in person, you’ll need to bring two forms of identification, one of which must include your current residence address.

Peoria County voters have the option to cast their ballot at any of the County’s designated polling places, including at Chillicothe Public Library! In addition to being a polling place on Election Day (March 17), the library will host early voting on March 11 and 12 from 10am to 6pm. Visit peoriaelections.gov for detailed information about voting and elections in Peoria County.

As you consider your choices for this year’s political elections, the library is also offering the opportunity to do some voting that’s low stakes and all for fun, with the return of the “Library Bracket Bonanza!” Throughout the month of March, visitors can see what books, movies, and videogames checked out the most from Chillicothe Public Library in 2025, and vote for their favorites. Winners will advance each week!

And whether you want to talk with friends or family about favorite books, politics, or other topics, these conversations can be meaningful but sometimes tricky to navigate. Ready for more civil and informed dialogue? On Tuesday, February 24 at 6pm, Chris Kaergard will discuss ways to interact with empathy, respect, curiosity, and integrity, creating space for understanding, even when you disagree. Tacos served, courtesy of Taco Bell. Register to let us know you’d like a taco at bit.ly/3uX9G4w or call 309-274-2719.

For more information on the programs and services offered at Chillicothe Public Library, call 309-274-2719, visit chillipld.org, or stop by at 430 N. Bradley Ave., Chillicothe, IL 61523.