📢 Exciting News for Libraries and Schools!
Yesterday, the FCC approved an order to make Wi-Fi hotspots and Internet services eligible for E-rate program support. This historic decision, which SHLB Coalition recommended over three years ago, will significantly boost connectivity for students, school staff, and library patrons.
The Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) created in 2021 provided vital internet access during the pandemic but expired in June 2024. Thankfully, the FCC has revived this initiative, ensuring ongoing off-campus support through the E-rate program.
What's New?
Schools and libraries can apply for E-rate funds to offset costs for Wi-Fi hotspots and Internet services.
Parameters established to safeguard E-rate funds, including reimbursement caps, a three-year budget mechanism, and competitive bidding requirements.
SHLB has long advocated for better internet access for students and library patrons. We led a coalition in 2021 to support remote learning and have been actively recommending improvements to the E-rate program.
“Today we have a choice... to build a digital future that works for everyone,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel during the July 18 meeting.
This step is crucial, especially with the lapse of funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program and the expiration of the ECF.
Read the Full Blog Post by Our Policy Counsel, Kristen Corra at shlb.org
Let’s keep moving forward to close the Homework Gap and the digital divide one anchor institution at a time!
