When women won the right to vote in 1920, the League of Women Voters was formed as an outgrowth of the National American Women's Suffrage Association. The organization that helped women become voters was transformed into one to help them, and all other citizens, to be well-informed voters.

The League is an organization whose purpose is to encourage citizens to take part in their government. The League is interested in helping all citizens become informed about their national, state, and local governments, important issues, and the many ways an individual can effectively influence her or his government. All of the League activities reflect its commitment to nonpartisanship. The League does not support or oppose candidates or political parties.

The local League publishes a directory of elected official for Richland and Lexington Counties. The League's Voter Service activities include: registering voters; informing the public about voting procedures; urging citizens to vote; providing factual information about candidates based on their records and opinions on important issues; and moderating candidate forums.