How to partner the Bridgeport Public library with other civic and govermental organizations in order to improve voter turnout in Bridgeport and to increase civic engagement by and with the Bridgeport Community as a whole.

Working with numerous state and local civic and govermental organizations including: The Greater Bridgeport Latino Network, Common Cause, League of Women Voters, Secretary of the State’s Office, Every Day Democracy, Bridgeport Child Advocacy Coalition, The Parent Leadership Training Institute, Excel Bridgeport, Bridgeport Public Education Fund, RYASAP- Regional Youth Adult Social Action Partnership the Bridgeport Public Library has taken a leading role in the founding of Bridgeport votes.

Just prior to the November general election, the Bridgeport Public Library hosted a Bridgeport Votes meet and greet session attended by our three mayorial candidates and recently the library hosted a panel discussion on the importance of civic engagement in the making of a better Bridgeport. Both events were well received and well worth the effort. Future plans include issue debates, voter registration drives, continuence of regular monthly Bridgeport Votes meetings hosted by the library and expanding coalition membership. ** I have included links to the web pgs. of the 2 events mentioned above - one of which is in the video box.