E-rate and Emergency Connectivity Fund Update: What’s Going on With Federal Support for Library Connectivity?

Abstract/Program Book Description: Under the aegis of the Federal Communications Commission, the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF), has enabled public libraries to push internet connectivity beyond the walls of the building and out into the community and to lend laptops and tablets to those who need them for internet access. ECF complements the 24-year-old E-rate program, which itself continues to evolve and provide new challenges to applicants. Learn more about where these programs are headed, as well as FCC outreach efforts to tribal and rural libraries.

Long Description/Scheduler Description: Federal support for extending essential internet connectivity and providing laptops to unserved populations—along with extensive efforts by libraries and schools to also address this issue—have helped mitigate the negative consequences of building closures, limited staffing and services during the pandemic. Under the aegis of the Federal Communications Commission, the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF), has enabled public libraries to push internet connectivity beyond the walls of the building and out into the community and to lend laptops and tablets to those who need them for internet access. ECF complements the 24-year-old E-rate program, which itself continues to evolve and provide new challenges to applicants. Learn more about where these programs are headed, as well as FCC outreach efforts to tribal and rural libraries.