E-Rate needs your help!
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering a new proposal that raises the possibility of eliminating the E-Rate program, an essential source of broadband discounts for libraries and schools.
When E-Rate began in the late 1990s, most libraries and schools had little or no internet access. Today, nearly every library and school in the country has a high-speed connection. The FCC points to that success and suggests the job is finished. The reality is the opposite. That connectivity exists because E-Rate helps libraries and schools pay for internet access year after year.
The FCC’s new proposed rule has been officially released and is open for public comment, so it’s time for library advocates like you to raise your voices and remind the agency how much our communities rely on E-Rate. The American Library Association (ALA) has been showing up for E-Rate and connectivity at the library since the program’s inception. We’re not backing down now.
How can you help?
There are several ways that you can show your support for the congressionally mandated E-Rate program.
• If you haven’t already, contact your members of Congress to tell them to protect E-Rate and keep our communities connected.
• Use ALA’s new guide to help invite your members of Congress to the library and show them what E-Rate enables in your community.
• ALA also has a new letter template to help you write comments supporting E-Rate that you can submit to the FCC. Comments are due Tuesday, October 13 at midnight Eastern time.
Every library advocate has a role to play and the power to make a difference in their community. Speak up now and tell Congress to save E-Rate.
Act now!
How you can support libraries
With library funding being gutted and censorship on the rise, supporting libraries is more critical than ever. If you’re looking for a way to help, we urge you to become a Supporter of the American Library Association by donating.
At the American Library Association, we are here to protect libraries — today and for generations to come. What does your donation do? It helps a neighbor gain skills to start a business. It helps a child discover themselves through books and programs. And it helps keep libraries strong, open, and free for everyone.
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