Hi all!
We’re halfway through the application period for the ECF funds and I wanted to just check in and provide you with even more helpful resources- this time from the
ALA’s Emergency Connectivity Fund – Information for Libraries site (please visit the site for the full page as the below is a snippet). I have included this information (along with all other resources I’ve shared)
on the E-Rate Libguide Page. The password for access is
tnlibguides and you’ll need to click on the “ARPA Emergency Connectivity Funds (ECF)” tab to access all the resources. I hope this is helpful to you all as you’re moving forward with this opportunity!
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The American Rescue Plan
Act (ARPA) of 2021 includes $7.17 billion for the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) program. The ECF will provide funding for public and tribal libraries and K12 schools to purchase connected devices and broadband internet connections for use off
of library and school grounds by library patrons, students, and teachers and staff who otherwise don't have internet access.
The ECF presents an unprecedented funding opportunity for libraries to expand broadband equity to those who need it most beyond the confines of library walls. With 100 percent reimbursement
of costs for eligible equipment and services and the ability to receive upfront reimbursement, now is the moment to think big about how your library can leverage new funding to boost current technology lending efforts to reach more people or launch new services
to connect your community…or both! Your library may also take advantage of other ARPA funds to support related digital inclusion needs, such as programming, staffing, and staff training.
After receiving input from ALA and other stakeholders, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) published the rules
and policies for the ECF program on May 11, 2021. While the ECF program is not the same as the federal E-rate
program, it will leverage some existing E-rate forms and processes to expedite implementation.
Libraries and schools can apply for funding for the purchase of eligible equipment and services made between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022. The
application window for the ECF program will open on June 29 and will stay open until August 13. This web page will be updated regularly.
To help libraries take advantage of this one-time infusion of funding to offset expenses associated with providing off-premises connectivity to library patrons who need it most, the ALA
Public Policy & Advocacy Office has created the Emergency Connectivity Fund Solutions Toolkit.
The Toolkit includes five scenarios that reflect the most common ways libraries have worked to connect their communities using ECF-eligible equipment and provide detailed guidance modeled
on examples collected from libraries across the country—in rural, suburban, and urban communities. Regardless of where your library is starting, there is a connectivity scenario to help you leverage new funding. The “Preparing to Apply” guide tells you what
you need to be doing right now to be ready when the application window for funding opens.
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Best,
Liz
Liz Thigpen Schreck | Director
Ocoee River Regional Library
State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries
Office of Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett
718 George St., NW, Athens, TN 37303
P. (423) 745-5194 – office; (423) 649-1583 - direct
Regional Toll Free - (855) 692-8186
Fax (423) 649-1501
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