What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will explain the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2023 E-rate application.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will explain the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2024 E-rate application.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will explain the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2021 E-rate application.
NCompass Live - August 2, 2023
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
This session will be a general overview of the E-rate program. Full in-depth E-rate workshops will be held later in the year. It will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a short refresher on what E-rate is all about.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The dates and rules in this session will be specific to E-rate Funding Year 2024.
Presenter: Christa Porter, Nebraska's State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, Nebraska Library Commission.
NCompass Live - October 14, 2020
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/NCompassLive/
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment. This session will cover the basics of the E-rate program and will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a short refresher on what E-rate is all about.
NOTE: The dates and rules in this session will be specific to E-rate Funding Year 2021.
Presenter: Christa Porter, Nebraska's State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, Nebraska Library Commission.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will explain the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2022 E-rate application.
NCompass Live - August 17, 2022
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
This session will be a general overview of the E-rate program and will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a short refresher on what E-rate is all about.
IMPORTANT NOTES: The dates and rules in this session will be specific to E-rate Funding Year 2023. Full in-depth E-rate workshops will be held later in the year.
Presenter: Christa Porter, Nebraska's State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, Nebraska Library Commission.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access and Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment, in order to make these services more affordable.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your library need to know to use EPC? In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will cover the basics of the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2019 E-rate application.
What is E-rate? How can my public library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on Telecommunications, Internet access, and Internal Connections costs in order to make these services more affordable. There have been some big changes to E-rate since USAC launched the E-Rate Productivity Center(EPC). This new online portal is the main point of entry for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can now use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your public library need to know to use this new E-rate portal? In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will first cover the basics of the E-rate program and then show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2018 E-rate application.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will explain the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2024 E-rate application.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will explain the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2021 E-rate application.
NCompass Live - August 2, 2023
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
This session will be a general overview of the E-rate program. Full in-depth E-rate workshops will be held later in the year. It will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a short refresher on what E-rate is all about.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The dates and rules in this session will be specific to E-rate Funding Year 2024.
Presenter: Christa Porter, Nebraska's State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, Nebraska Library Commission.
NCompass Live - October 14, 2020
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/NCompassLive/
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment. This session will cover the basics of the E-rate program and will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a short refresher on what E-rate is all about.
NOTE: The dates and rules in this session will be specific to E-rate Funding Year 2021.
Presenter: Christa Porter, Nebraska's State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, Nebraska Library Commission.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will explain the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2022 E-rate application.
NCompass Live - August 17, 2022
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
This session will be a general overview of the E-rate program and will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a short refresher on what E-rate is all about.
IMPORTANT NOTES: The dates and rules in this session will be specific to E-rate Funding Year 2023. Full in-depth E-rate workshops will be held later in the year.
Presenter: Christa Porter, Nebraska's State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, Nebraska Library Commission.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access and Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment, in order to make these services more affordable.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your library need to know to use EPC? In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will cover the basics of the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2019 E-rate application.
What is E-rate? How can my public library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on Telecommunications, Internet access, and Internal Connections costs in order to make these services more affordable. There have been some big changes to E-rate since USAC launched the E-Rate Productivity Center(EPC). This new online portal is the main point of entry for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can now use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your public library need to know to use this new E-rate portal? In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will first cover the basics of the E-rate program and then show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2018 E-rate application.
What is E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate? How can my library get its piece of the E-rate pie?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will cover the basics of the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2020 E-rate application.
Big changes are coming to E-rate, the federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and public libraries in the United States to obtain affordable Internet access and Connections. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted the E-rate Modernization Order on July 11, 2014. The Order takes major steps to modernize and streamline the E-rate program and focuses on expanding funding for Broadband and WiFi Internet Access. In part to accomplish this, funding for Voice Services (telephone) will be gradually phased out.
What does your library need to know to prepare for these changes? In this workshop, Christa Burns, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and explain the changes that will be made to the program for Funding Year 2015 and beyond.
What is E-rate? How can my public library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on Telecommunications, Internet access, and Internal Connections costs in order to make these services more affordable. There have been some big changes to E-rate since USAC launched the E-Rate Productivity Center(EPC) last year. This new online portal is the main point of entry for all future E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can now use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your public library need to know to use this new E-rate portal? In this workshop, Christa (Burns) Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will first cover the basics of the E-rate program and then show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2017 E-rate application.
Big changes are coming again to E-rate, the federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and public libraries in the United States to obtain affordable Internet access and Connections. USAC has launched the E-Rate Productivity Center, EPC, for the 2016 Funding Year. This new online portal will be the main point of entry for all future E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you will use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your library need to know to use this new E-rate portal? In this workshop, Christa Burns, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will first cover the basics of the E-rate program and then show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2016 E-rate application.
Updated and revised on February 10, 2015, to include changes from the Second Modernization Report and Order (December 11, 2014) and clarifications made by the FCC and USAC.
Original description:
Big changes are coming to E-rate, the federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and public libraries in the United States to obtain affordable Internet access and Connections. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted the E-rate Modernization Order on July 11, 2014. The Order takes major steps to modernize and streamline the E-rate program and focuses on expanding funding for Broadband and WiFi Internet Access. In part to accomplish this, funding for Voice Services (telephone) will be gradually phased out.
What does your library need to know to prepare for these changes? In this workshop, Christa Burns, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and explain the changes that will be made to the program for Funding Year 2015 and beyond.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns, State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and any changes that have been made to the program this year.
This session will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate and current E-rate libraries who just want a refresher on what E-rate is all about.
NOTE: The dates and rules in this session are specific to Funding Year 2012.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate? E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns, State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and any changes that have been made to the program this year. This session will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate and current E-rate libraries who just want a refresher on what E-rate is all about.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns, State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and any changes that have been made to the program for Funding Year 2014.
This session will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a refresher on what E-rate is all about.
What the Recent E-Rate Changes Mean for Your DistrictCarrie Johnson
Learn about the recent overhaul of the E-Rate program and the new opportunities and challenges it creates for school districts. The reforms represent a historic funding boost and give schools new tools to strengthen Wi-Fi connections to support the delivery of digital learning. The presenter worked on education & telecom policy for 6 years the U.S. Senate, including in 2014 when the E-Rate rules were adopted. This presentation will focus on the new reforms and the E-Rate application process.
The E-Rate program has been slightly modified while the funding has been dramatically increased for E-Rate 2.0.
Join the Pine Cove team as we host a series of webinars to discuss the how to benefit from this huge opportunity. The changes equate to millions of dollars that are now available to our Montana Schools. We believe every district should revisit the E-Rate conversation & opportunity with their E-Rate consultant to help your district subsidize major technological initiatives.
UPDATE: ALL Nebraska public libraries are eligible to apply for E-rate. Libraries DO NOT have to be accredited to apply.
NOTE: The dates and rules in this session are specific to Funding Year 2011.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate? E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns will cover the basics of E-rate, the changes that have been made this year, and provide tips on completing the first 2 forms in the E-rate process, Form 470 and 471.
NCompass Live - April 10, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
Libraries have been offering programming for decades, and in many cases the model has been, "Let’s plan a program, promote it, and see who shows up." This approach hasn’t changed much, even with social and technological changes, not to mention the pandemic and streaming programs. Program planning with a marketing mindset starts with identifying your customer’s needs and wants, then developing programs and services to meet those needs and wants. We’ll discuss how to use research – quantitative and qualitative – to plan and market programs that will engage your customers. We’ll talk about "bundling" programs and services for different audience segments. We’ll also cover how this more strategic approach can save time and resources for your library.
Presenter: Cordelia Anderson, Library Marketing and Communications Consultant, Cordelia Anderson Consulting.
Katarina Spears, Library Director; Baylee Hughes, Community Engagement Librarian, James L. Hamner Public Library, Amelia Court House, VA (Population served: 13,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
What is E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate? How can my library get its piece of the E-rate pie?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on the cost of their Internet Access and Connections to make these services more affordable. This includes Broadband, Fiber, and Wi-Fi Internet access as well as Internal Connections, such as wiring, routers, switches, and other network equipment.
The E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) is your online portal for all E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
In this workshop, Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will cover the basics of the E-rate program and show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2020 E-rate application.
Big changes are coming to E-rate, the federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and public libraries in the United States to obtain affordable Internet access and Connections. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted the E-rate Modernization Order on July 11, 2014. The Order takes major steps to modernize and streamline the E-rate program and focuses on expanding funding for Broadband and WiFi Internet Access. In part to accomplish this, funding for Voice Services (telephone) will be gradually phased out.
What does your library need to know to prepare for these changes? In this workshop, Christa Burns, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and explain the changes that will be made to the program for Funding Year 2015 and beyond.
What is E-rate? How can my public library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to schools and public libraries on Telecommunications, Internet access, and Internal Connections costs in order to make these services more affordable. There have been some big changes to E-rate since USAC launched the E-Rate Productivity Center(EPC) last year. This new online portal is the main point of entry for all future E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you can now use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your public library need to know to use this new E-rate portal? In this workshop, Christa (Burns) Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, will first cover the basics of the E-rate program and then show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2017 E-rate application.
Big changes are coming again to E-rate, the federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and public libraries in the United States to obtain affordable Internet access and Connections. USAC has launched the E-Rate Productivity Center, EPC, for the 2016 Funding Year. This new online portal will be the main point of entry for all future E-rate interactions. With your organizational account you will use EPC to file forms, track your application status, communicate with USAC, and more.
What does your library need to know to use this new E-rate portal? In this workshop, Christa Burns, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will first cover the basics of the E-rate program and then show you how to access and use your account in EPC to submit your Funding Year 2016 E-rate application.
Updated and revised on February 10, 2015, to include changes from the Second Modernization Report and Order (December 11, 2014) and clarifications made by the FCC and USAC.
Original description:
Big changes are coming to E-rate, the federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and public libraries in the United States to obtain affordable Internet access and Connections. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted the E-rate Modernization Order on July 11, 2014. The Order takes major steps to modernize and streamline the E-rate program and focuses on expanding funding for Broadband and WiFi Internet Access. In part to accomplish this, funding for Voice Services (telephone) will be gradually phased out.
What does your library need to know to prepare for these changes? In this workshop, Christa Burns, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and explain the changes that will be made to the program for Funding Year 2015 and beyond.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns, State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and any changes that have been made to the program this year.
This session will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate and current E-rate libraries who just want a refresher on what E-rate is all about.
NOTE: The dates and rules in this session are specific to Funding Year 2012.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate? E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns, State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and any changes that have been made to the program this year. This session will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate and current E-rate libraries who just want a refresher on what E-rate is all about.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate?
E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns, State E-rate Coordinator for Libraries, will cover the basics of E-rate and any changes that have been made to the program for Funding Year 2014.
This session will be useful to libraries who have never applied for E-rate, libraries who are new to E-rate, and current E-rate libraries who just want a refresher on what E-rate is all about.
What the Recent E-Rate Changes Mean for Your DistrictCarrie Johnson
Learn about the recent overhaul of the E-Rate program and the new opportunities and challenges it creates for school districts. The reforms represent a historic funding boost and give schools new tools to strengthen Wi-Fi connections to support the delivery of digital learning. The presenter worked on education & telecom policy for 6 years the U.S. Senate, including in 2014 when the E-Rate rules were adopted. This presentation will focus on the new reforms and the E-Rate application process.
The E-Rate program has been slightly modified while the funding has been dramatically increased for E-Rate 2.0.
Join the Pine Cove team as we host a series of webinars to discuss the how to benefit from this huge opportunity. The changes equate to millions of dollars that are now available to our Montana Schools. We believe every district should revisit the E-Rate conversation & opportunity with their E-Rate consultant to help your district subsidize major technological initiatives.
UPDATE: ALL Nebraska public libraries are eligible to apply for E-rate. Libraries DO NOT have to be accredited to apply.
NOTE: The dates and rules in this session are specific to Funding Year 2011.
What is E-rate? How can my library benefit from E-rate? How do I apply for E-rate? E-rate is a federal program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Christa Burns will cover the basics of E-rate, the changes that have been made this year, and provide tips on completing the first 2 forms in the E-rate process, Form 470 and 471.
NCompass Live - April 10, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
Libraries have been offering programming for decades, and in many cases the model has been, "Let’s plan a program, promote it, and see who shows up." This approach hasn’t changed much, even with social and technological changes, not to mention the pandemic and streaming programs. Program planning with a marketing mindset starts with identifying your customer’s needs and wants, then developing programs and services to meet those needs and wants. We’ll discuss how to use research – quantitative and qualitative – to plan and market programs that will engage your customers. We’ll talk about "bundling" programs and services for different audience segments. We’ll also cover how this more strategic approach can save time and resources for your library.
Presenter: Cordelia Anderson, Library Marketing and Communications Consultant, Cordelia Anderson Consulting.
Katarina Spears, Library Director; Baylee Hughes, Community Engagement Librarian, James L. Hamner Public Library, Amelia Court House, VA (Population served: 13,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Katarina Spears, Library Director; Baylee Hughes, Community Engagement Librarian, James L. Hamner Public Library, Amelia Court House, VA (Population served: 13,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Katarina Spears, Library Director; Baylee Hughes, Community Engagement Librarian, James L. Hamner Public Library, Amelia Court House, VA (Population served: 13,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Katarina Spears, Library Director; Baylee Hughes, Community Engagement Librarian, James L. Hamner Public Library, Amelia Court House, VA (Population served: 13,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Katarina Spears, Library Director; Baylee Hughes, Community Engagement Librarian, James L. Hamner Public Library, Amelia Court House, VA (Population served: 13,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Erin Crockett, Library Director, Carroll County Library, Huntingdon, TN (Population served: 4,433)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Alec Staley, Branch Manager, Worcester County Library – Ocean City Branch, Ocean City, MD (Population served: 6,900)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Katarina Spears, Library Director; Baylee Hughes, Community Engagement Librarian, James L. Hamner Public Library, Amelia Court House, VA (Population served: 13,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Amber Sweetland, Director, Kimball Public Library, Kimball, NE (Population served: 2,500)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Abbie Steuhm, Research & Scholarship Librarian, Karl E. Mundt Library, Dakota State University, Madison, SD (FTE: 2,000)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Karen Mier, Library Director, Plattsmouth Public Library, Plattsmouth, NE (Population served: 6,620)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
Jennifer Chess, Communications & Marketing Librarian; Lori Mullooly, Events and Programming Librarian; Lisa Gomez, Exhibition Librarian; U.S. Military Academy Library, West Point, NY (FTE: 4,400)
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
February 23, 2024
http://nlcblogs.nebraska.gov/bigtalk
NCompass Live - March 13, 2024
While every library is unique, they all seem to share one thing in common: they could use more money! Grant funding might be the just thing to help buy technology for STEM programming, get a new service initiative off the ground, or complete a renovation. But applying for grants can be overwhelming – and that’s assuming you can even find one for which you qualify. This session aims to introduce you to the tools to make the grant application process more easily navigable. In this session, Kathryn will provide tips for putting your best foot forward when it comes time to submit your proposal. Handouts include a roadmap to success and descriptions of various sections of the application.
Presenter: Kathryn Brockmeier, Grant Consultant.
NCompass Live - February 14, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
Nebraska’s statewide education network, Network Nebraska, has made great strides in expanding broadband services and fostering digital equity in the state. By significantly expanding access to eduroam* in community anchor institutions, such as K-12 schools, community colleges, and libraries, ConnectEd Nebraska has made an important impact on the state’s educational landscape. In addition, ConnectEd Nebraska is piloting innovative collaborations between school districts and local ISPs to expand access to eduroam in unique ways that go beyond traditional anchor institutions, reducing barriers to broadband access and enhancing educational opportunities. Attend this session to learn what eduroam is, where it's deployed throughout the state, and how your library can get involved.
More information is available at https://connectednebraska.com/
* eduroam is a secure, world-wide roaming access service developed for the research and education community that allows students, researchers, and staff from participating institutions to obtain Internet connectivity across campus and when visiting other participating sites.
Presenter: Brett Bieber, Assistant Vice President, IT Client Services, University of Nebraska.
NCompass Live - February 7, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
Do you have WiFi questions? Sherm has the answers!
On this episode on NCompass Live, the Nebraska Library Commission's Library Technology Support Specialist, Andrew 'Sherm' Sherman, will cover:
The current standards of WiFi technology
What WiFi standards and equipment libraries should be utilizing
The pros and cons of the different WiFi configurations in a library environment
The assistance Sherm can provide to libraries with their WiFi and other technology needs
NCompass Live - January 24, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
Brief book talks and reviews of new titles recommended to school and public librarians, covering both middle and high school levels, that were published within the last year.
Presenter: Sally Snyder, Coordinator of Children and Young Adult Library Services, Nebraska Library Commission and Dana Fontaine, Librarian, Fremont High School.
NCompass Live - January 17, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
Have you wondered if your library's website needs some work? How do you decide that, without being subjective? How do you know what to measure, or how to measure it? There are many current standards for content, images, navigation, usability, and more that can be readily applied to your website, allowing for a more objective analysis of what you currently have. A website audit can provide a valuable framework, especially before beginning a full or even partial redesign of your library's site. Learn about data-based principles that can guide your future work and discover some tools that can provide concrete specifics for elements that may need attention.
Presenter: Laura Solomon, MCIW, MLS is the Library Services Manager for the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN). She has been doing web development and design for more than twenty years, in both public libraries and as an independent consultant. She specializes in developing with Drupal. She is a 2010 Library Journal Mover & Shaker. She's written three books about social media and content marketing, specifically for libraries, and speaks nationally on both these and technology-related topics. As a former children's librarian, she enjoys bringing the "fun of technology" to audiences and in giving libraries the tools they need to better serve the virtual customer.
NCompass Live - January 10, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/ncompasslive/
What is the Nebraska Library Commission? Who are we? What do we do?
To kick off 2024, we will introduce you to the people and departments of the Nebraska Library Commission.
In Part 2, you will meet Christa Porter, Library Development Director; Tessa Timperly, Communications Coordinator; Gabe Kramer, Talking Book & Braille Service Director; and Devra Dragos, Technology & Access Services Director.
NCompass Live - January 3, 2024
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/NCompassLive/
What is the Nebraska Library Commission? Who are we? What do we do?
To kick off 2024, we will introduce you to the people and departments of the Nebraska Library Commission.
In Part 1, you will meet Rod Wagner, Library Commission Director; Vern Buis, Computer Services Director; Lisa Kelly, Information Services Director; and Mary Sauers, Government Information Services Librarian.
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The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
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2. What is E-rate?
• Federal program to “ensure that
schools and libraries can obtain
high-speed internet access at
affordable rates, and keep
students and library patrons
connected to broadband by
providing a discount on eligible
services and equipment.”
• Funded through the Universal Service fee
charged to customers and companies that
provide telecommunications services.
3. Who runs the E-rate program?
• FCC - Federal Communications
Commission, an independent U.S. government
agency, oversees the E-rate program – sets
rules and policies
• USAC - Universal Service Administrative
Company, a not-for-profit, is responsible for the
day-to-day administration of the E-rate program
• SLD - Schools and Libraries Program is the
part of USAC with responsibility for E-rate
4. Funding Year
Commitments for E-rate are made by
Funding Year, which runs from July 1
through the following June 30
FY 2023 is July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024
5. Funding Year
• Timing of program activities:
– Before the Funding Year starts:
• Competitive bidding and applying for
discounts
– Beginning of Funding Year:
• Services start
– During and after End of Funding Year:
• Invoicing
6. Who can apply?
– Libraries and library systems
• Must be eligible for LSTA funds
• In Nebraska – all public libraries are
eligible
• Includes Tribal Libraries
– Schools and school districts
7. Tribal Libraries
– FCC amended the definition of ‘library’ in the E-rate
rules to include ‘Tribal Library’ (FCC Order 22-8,
Jan. 27, 2022)
– Designated as a Tribal library by a Tribal Council,
and must have:
• Regularly scheduled hours
• Staff, and
• Materials available for library users
– Tribal college libraries are not eligible for E-Rate
funding
9. Discounts
How much of a discount can my library receive?
– Discounts range from 20% to 90%
– Discount for a library depends on:
• Percentage of K-12 students eligible for
National School Lunch Program (NSLP) in
the school district in which the library is located
- can’t include PreK
• Urban or rural location of the library
10. Calculate Your Discount – 3 Steps
1. Find your NSLP data on the Nebraska DOE website:
https://www.education.ne.gov/dataservices/data-reports/
2. Check your Urban/Rural Status –
https://www.usac.org/e-rate/applicant-process/
applying-for-discounts/urban-or-rural-status/
Based on U.S Census data. The FCC defines Urban
areas as areas with populations equal or greater
than 25,000. Rural encompasses all territory not in
an urban area.
3. Use the Discount Matrix to determine your discount.
13. What is ‘E-rate-able’?
The FCC publishes the ESL - Eligible
Services List each year.
• Category One - services providing
high-speed connectivity to the building
– No limit on how much funding can be
requested
• Category Two – services/equipment
providing high-speed connectivity
throughout the building
– Budget limit on funding that can be
requested
14. Category One
Digital transmission and Internet access services –
basically anything that provides high speed broadband.
• Broadband over Power Lines
• Cable Modem
• DSL
• DS-1, DS-2, DS-3
• Ethernet
• Fiber (Lit and Dark)
• Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
• Satellite Services
• T-1, T-3, Fractional T-1
or T-3
• Wireless Service
(e.g. microwave)
15. Fiber Options
• Lit Fiber: Fiber-based broadband service, owned
and managed by service provider. Customer pays a
recurring fee to use the network.
• Dark Fiber: Customer leases a portion of a provider-
owned and maintained fiber network and pays to
have that fiber lit (turned on) in order to use that fiber.
• Program rules require applicants considering a Dark
Fiber solution for their connectivity must also request
bids for a Lit Fiber solution – the FCC Form 470 will
automatically require both options.
16. Special Construction
Special construction refers to the upfront, non-recurring
costs associated with the installation of new fiber to or
between eligible libraries and schools.
• Special construction charges eligible
for Category One support:
1. construction of network facilities;
2. design and engineering; and
3. project management.
• Special construction may begin six months prior to
the July 1 start of the funding year – so, after
January 1
17. State Matching Fund for Special Construction
• Additional Category One funding to match
any state funding for “special construction”
costs to connect schools and libraries to high-
speed broadband services.
• E-rate Program will provide up to an
additional 10% to match any state funding for
fiber special construction on a one-to-one
dollar basis.
18. State Matching Fund for Special Construction
• Example:
– Library has received a bid from a service provider for a
$100,000 special construction fiber project and is eligible for
an 80% E-rate discount.
– E-rate will contribute $80,000 and the local share for the
Library is $20,000.
– The State Matching fund will contribute 10% of the project or
$10,000.
– The E-rate program will match the state’s 10% and also
contribute $10,000 towards the local share.
– The Library’s responsibility is reduced to $0!
19. State Matching Fund for Special Construction
• Example:
$100,000 – Cost of project
-$80,000 – 80% E-rate discount
-$10,000 – 10% State Match
-$10,000 – 10% E-rate Match
=$0 – Library Cost
20. Nebraska’s Special Construction State Matching
Program - NUSF-117
• The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has
budgeted $1 million to use over four years (2021-2024)
to complete fiber construction to E-Rate eligible libraries
and schools that are not now fiber-connected.
https://psc.nebraska.gov/telecommunications/nebraska-e-rate-
special-construction-matching-fund-program-nusf-117
• Any library or school applying for Nebraska’s E-Rate
Special Construction State Matching Program must go
through the steps in the FCC’s E-Rate program:
– Submit a Form 470 and select a
provider through a competitive
bid process.
470
21. NUSF-117
• December 31, 2022:
– Deadline to submit NUSF-117
Application form to the PSC.
– Must include copy of Form 470 and
chosen bid response from service
provider.
• Mid-January 2023:
– The Commission will provide notice to applicants
indicating whether their application has been
approved.
– Libraries will include this letter with Form 471, to
show USAC that they have been approved for the
State Match Funding. 471
22. Special Construction
Working with your local government
• This may be a major construction project.
• What are your municipality’s contracting and
procurement rules, regulations, statutes, etc. about:
– Posting RFPs?
– Evaluating and accepting bids?
• Do you need approval from someone before you are
allowed to post an RFP?
23. Special Construction
Working with your local government
• People to potentially include in your planning process
and writing of your RFP:
– City Administrator/Manager
– City IT Department
– City Attorney
– City Clerk/Accountant
– Mayor
– Library Board
– Others?
24. Category Two
• Access points
• Antennas
• Cabling
• Caching
• Firewalls
• Network switches
• Routers
• Racks
Internal Connections - equipment and
services needed to utilize broadband within
the library.
• Uninterruptible Power
Supply/Battery Backup
• Wireless LAN Controllers
• Improvements, upgrades,
and software/license
necessary to support
eligible broadband
internal connections
components
25. Category Two
Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections (BMIC)
– Repair and upkeep of hardware
– Wire and cable maintenance
– Basic tech support
– Configuration changes
• Support for BMIC is limited to actual work performed
under the contract
• Only maintenance services provided for the current
funding year are eligible
– i.e., a three-year subscription should be requested annually
for one third of the price over three years
26. Miscellaneous
Could fall into either Category One or Two
– Taxes, surcharges and other similar reasonable
charges
– Lease fees to rent or lease eligible components
– Shipping charges
– Training
– Installation and configuration
• Installation may be provided by a third party –
previously it had to be part of the contract
when you purchased the equipment. Now you
can have someone else install the equipment.
27. Broadband Toolkit
Toward Gigabit Libraries Toolkit - Designed for
small, rural, and tribal libraries with limited IT support.
• Free, Open Source. Funded by IMLS
• Learn about your broadband infrastructure and IT
environment by answering guided questions
– Technology Inventory
– Broadband Services and Operational Support
– Funding Opportunities
• Broadband Improvement Plan
For help, contact Holly Woldt: holly.woldt@nebraska.gov
29. Category Two Budgets
• USAC calculates fixed five-year budgets for Category
Two products and services for each library
• FY 2021-2025, FY 2026-2030, etc.
• C2 budgets are set at the beginning of the cycle and
they apply to the entire five-year period.
• The library can receive discounts on the cost of C2
services up to its C2 budget amount.
• The price of C2 products or services you purchase
each year is subtracted from your budget.
• A library’s C2 budget is determined when the first C2
FCC Form 471 in the budget cycle is certified.
30. Category Two Budgets
How much is my budget?
For FY 2021-2025, the pre-discount budget for a library
is calculated by multiplying the total area in square
feet – including all areas enclosed by the outer walls of
the library and occupied by the library – by $4.50, with a
minimum budget (funding floor) of $25,000.
• A library with less than 5556 square feet meets the $25,000
funding floor.
• Budgets can be recalculated based on current square footage,
and can go up or down.
• You may request a C2 Replacement Budget in any
year of a budget cycle.
31. Category Two Budgets
How much is my budget?
Example: Your library is 3,500 square feet.
• 3,500 square feet x $4.50 per square foot = $15,750.
• However, there is a $25,000 minimum budget. Since the
result of the calculation is less than $25,000, the pre-
discount budget is $25,000.
• At a 50% discount rate, the library will receive $12,500 in
E-rate funds to spend on Category Two services during the
current 5 year period: $25,000 x 0.5 = $12,500.
33. CIPA/NCIPA Compliance
(Children's Internet Protection Act)
Compliance with CIPA required for:
• Internet access
• Internal connections
CIPA requires:
• Internet Safety Policy
• Technology Protection Measure
• Public Notice and Meeting/Hearing
USAC information on CIPA:
https://www.usac.org/e-rate/applicant-process/starting-
services/cipa/
35. E-rate Forms
Competitive
Bidding
Apply for
Discounts
Start
Services Invoice USAC
“I want a service.”
“I have chosen a
service provider.”
“I am receiving the
service.”
“I am paying my bills
– give me my money!”
Form 498 – to provide bank information for
direct reimbursement payments - 472 - BEARs.
470 471 486
472
474
36. Document Retention
• Libraries must retain copies of any E-rate
paperwork that supports current year for 10
years after the last date of service.
– FY 2023: this is at least June 30, 2034.
– E.g., Contract from 2010 for recurring
services, used to support FY 2023 FRNs,
must be kept until at least June 30, 2034.
• Exception: CIPA documentation – keep
forever.
• Documents may be retained in electronic or
paper format.
37. Document Retention
You must retain:
– FCC Forms and letters received from USAC (e.g., FCC
Forms 470, 471, 486)
– Any other USAC correspondence.
– Copies of bids - both winning and losing.
– Contracts/service agreements signed with service
providers.
– Correspondence with service providers regarding bidding
process.
– Copies of bid matrix or decision process for selecting
winning bid.
– Proof of delivery of the service and/or equipment.
39. EPC – E-rate Productivity Center
• Use Chrome or Firefox browsers
• One online location for all program activities.
– Complete and certify program forms
– Check the status of applications
– Receive reminders and notifications
– Respond to PIA questions
– Ask USAC questions
https://www.usac.org/e-rate/
40. How to Log In
• USAC creates an account for the organization and
identifies an Account Administrator.
– Responsible for making sure the organization’s information in
EPC is correct.
• Account Administrators can create additional account
users, and decide which activities the users can perform:
– Full – can complete and certify forms, update organizational
info, and receive all USAC communications.
– Partial – can complete, but not certify forms. Can also update
organizational info.
– View only – can see, but not update the accounts.
72. EPC Administrative Window
• The administrative window allows applicants to update
their profiles in the E-rate Productivity Center (EPC).
– Opened on October 25, 2022.
– Will close shortly before the Funding Year (FY) 2023
FCC Form 471 application filing window opens.
• Why is there an administrative window?
– Libraries depend on static student counts to
accurately calculate their discounts.
– For consistency, certain entity information cannot be
changed during the 471 application filing window.
73. EPC Administrative Window
What to update during the Admin Window?
• Confirm account information, account administrator, and
contact information.
– Verify the name, physical address, mailing address,
and other contact information for the library.
• Libraries should update square footage counts for library
buildings, kiosks, and bookmobiles.
79. Describe & Request services
You post a Form 470 to:
–Open a competitive bidding
process
–Notify potential bidders (service
providers) of the types and
quantities of services that you
need
470
80. When is a 470 not required?
• Multi-year contracts
• You do not need to file a new Form 470 if the
contract is still in effect and the costs/services
are still within the terms of the establishing
Form 470.
• NOTE: You do still need to file a new Form
471 requesting E-rate support each funding
year.
470
81. When is a 470 not required?
• Applicants are exempted from the competitive bidding
rules when ordering business-class Internet access
services, if:
– the pre-discount cost is $3,600 or less annually
($300/month), and
– the bandwidth provided is at least 100 Mbps
downstream and 10 Mbps upstream
– service and price are publicly commercially available
• Cost can include one-time installation charges and
eligible equipment charges and services.
470
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.
91.
92.
93.
94.
95.
96.
97.
98.
99.
100.
101.
102.
103.
104.
105.
106.
107.
108.
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110.
111.
112.
113.
114.
115.
116.
117.
118.
119.
120.
121. Form 470 Receipt Notification
• Appears in your News feed. Summarizes
the information provided in the Form 470
• Applicant can make corrections or changes
• Gives the Allowable Contract Date (ACD)
– the date 28 calendar days after the Form
470 is posted to the USAC website
470
124. What is Competitive Bidding?
• Competitive bidding is a formal process to choose the
vendors/service providers who provide your products
and services
• Must last at least 28 calendar days from the date
you submit your 470 – Allowable Contract Date (ACD)
– Service providers read your documents and bid on
your services.
– Compare the offers you receive.
– Select the most cost-effective bid using price of the
eligible products and services as the primary factor
125. Competitive bidding
• Must have a fair and open bidding process
– All vendors are treated the same; have access to
same information
– Vendors cannot be involved in your 470
• Must choose most cost-effective bid
– Cost must be primary factor
– Fully document your bid review process and any
decision(s)
• Record dates of any decisions, actions taken, etc.
126. Competitive bidding
Factor Points Available Vendor 1 Vendor 2 Vendor 3
Price of the ELIGIBLE goods
and services 30 15 30 25
Prior experience w/ vendor 20 20 0 20
Prices for ineligible services,
products & fees 25 20 15 25
Flexible Invoicing: 472 or 474 15 0 15 15
Environmental objectives 5 5 3 2
Local or in state vendor 5 5 5 5
Total 100 65 68 92
Bid Evaluation Matrix (sample)
127. Existing Contract?
• Applicant has a current contract for service.
• To bring the contract into compliance, post an
FCC Form 470 for the services.
• Wait 28 calendar days and then use existing
contract as one of your bid responses. You
must then evaluate that contract against any
other bids you may receive.
• If the existing contract is the winning bid, the
E-rate contract is now eligible for funding for
the upcoming funding year.
128. City Pays for the Library’s Internet?
Use Cost Allocation
– Separate the library’s internet usage from
the rest of the city’s internet usage.
– Submit an estimate of the percent of use at
the library, or provide actual statistical
information.
– You only apply for E-rate on the library’s
portion of the internet that is paid for by
your city.
129. One Bid or Zero Bids?
• If you receive only one bid, and it is cost-effective,
you may accept it.
– Document your decision with a memo or email
for your records.
• If you did not receive any bids by your Allowable
Contract Date, you can solicit bids.
– Reach out to vendors in the area.
– Ask your current service provider to submit a bid
or to send you an email stating that they are
willing to continue to provide service at your
current level and cost.
130. Competitive bidding
On or after your Allowable Contract Date
(ACD), close the competitive bidding process.
Then you can:
– Evaluate the bids received
– Choose your service provider(s)
– Sign a contract or legally binding agreement
– Post a Form 471 – BUT, only during the
Application Filing Window
132. Choose services
Must be filed each funding year
You post a Form 471 to:
– Report information on the service providers and
services you have chosen, and the costs.
– Includes discount calculation information including
student NSLP counts
– Certify your compliance with program rules
Pro-Tip – Your Form 470 and Form 471 must
match, in terms of service type.
471
133. Choose services
USAC recommends communicating
with your service provider:
–If you need help completing
technical details
–To notify them of your desired
invoicing method
471
134. When to file Form 471?
• After the Form 470 has been posted for at least 28
calendar days - ACD has been reached
AND
• After contract or legally binding agreement in writing is
signed (if the service requires a contract)
AND
• During the Application Filing Window. Usually mid-
January – mid-March
• FY2023 Filing Window for Form 471 – will be
announced in December News Brief
471
135.
136.
137. • Category 1
Structure of a Form 471 Funding Request
• Must file a separate
471 for each
category of service
FCC Form 471 Step 1 –
Funding Request
Step 2 –
FRN Line Item
• Category 2
• Add one per service type
• Provides summary information
• Each request is identified by a
unique Funding Request
Number (FRN)
• Add one or more per FRN
• Provides details about the
individual services or
products listed on the
funding request
• Internet Access
• Digital Transmission
Service
• Internal Connections
• Internal Connections
• Line Item 1
• Line Item 2
• Line Item 1
• Line Item 1
• Line Item 1
• Line Item 2
Adding a funding request is a two-step process. For each service, you create an
FRN (Funding Request Number) and then create one or more FRN line items to
provide the details.
138. Form 471 Receipt Acknowledgement
• Issued by USAC to the applicant and service
provider that summarizes the information
provided in the Form 471
• Applicant can make corrections or changes
until USAC issues the Funding Commitment
Decision Letter
• Applicants can request funding reductions,
but not funding increases.
471
141. Application Review
PIA (Program Integrity Assurance) is the USAC group
that reviews and makes funding decisions on program
applications. PIA reviews your Form(s) 471 to:
– Check the eligibility of the libraries and their
discount levels
– Verify that the services you requested are eligible
for discounts
– Give you an opportunity to make allowable
corrections to your form
– In some cases, ask for additional verification of
your compliance with program rules
142. Funding Commitment Decision Letter (FCDL)
• FCDL reports status of individual funding requests:
• Funded
• Not funded
• As yet unfunded (internal connections)
• Canceled
• May receive more than one FCDL
• If you disagree with a USAC decision, you can file an
appeal.
148. Start Services
You post a Form 486 to:
– Notify USAC that services have started and
invoices for those services can be processed
and paid
– Report your status of compliance with CIPA
(if needed)
• All the information you need to complete your
486 is in EPC and auto-fills into the form!
486
149.
150.
151.
152.
153.
154.
155. Form 486 Notification Letter
Letter issued by USAC to the
applicant and service provider after a
Form 486 has been processed
155
486
156.
157. Deadline
• Form 486 deadline is 120 days after
service starts
–OR–
• 120 days after date of Funding
Commitment Decision Letter date,
whichever is later
• October 29 deadline for FCDL before
July 1
486
159. Invoicing USAC
Applicants have a choice of two invoicing
methods to receive discounts:
1. SPI - Service Provider Invoice - Form 474
• To receive the discount on your bills
• Filed by the service provider after the
applicant has been billed
474
160. Invoicing USAC
2. BEAR - Billed Entity Applicant Reimbursement -
Form 472
• To receive reimbursement after you have paid
your bills in full
• Filed by the applicant
• Due October 28 - 120 days after last service
date of June 30 OR 120 days after date of
Form 486 Notification Letter
• Direct reimbursement from USAC – electronic
bank transfers only. USAC does not issue
checks.
472
161. Direct Payment – Form 498
Form 498 – to provide USAC with banking
information.
• You must submit the 498 and your bank
account documentation before you can do the
BEAR Form.
• Basic banking information: Contact person,
Applicant (library) information, Bank
account and routing numbers.
• Will need a Federal Employer ID Number
(EIN/TaxID) – used for payroll.
162. Direct Payment – Form 498
• DUNS Number: Dun & Bradstreet “Data Universal
Numbering System” – used to identify business
entities.
• Free to get one if it is required for a federal form -
E-rate qualifies.
• Check to see if you already have one: D&B’s online
D-U-N-S database:
https://www.dandb.com/dunsnumberlookup/ or call
(866) 705-5711 to speak to a representative
• Apply online through Dun & Bradstreet’s website:
http://www.dnb.com/get-a-duns-number.html
163.
164.
165.
166. Form 498 Banking Documentation
After you file an FCC Form 498, you must
separately upload banking documentation so that
USAC can verify your account information.
• clear image of a voided check
OR
• a statement from your financial institution that
includes the bank name and account number
https://efile.universalservice.org/ServiceProvider
Management/V1/BankValidation
167. BEAR Form Access
As of July 12, 2021, USAC no longer requires
PIN number to access the BEAR Form.
• Log in via EPC.
• Must request access first with the BEAR
Access Template – Excel.
• Open a Customer Service Case and attach
the completed spreadsheet.
• USAC will e-mail you when your BEAR Form
access has been set up.
https://www.usac.org/e-rate/
resources/forms/bear-form-access/
472
168.
169.
170. Invoicing USAC - Forms 472/474
• BEAR Notification – issued by USAC to
the applicant and service provider after a
BEAR has been processed
• Quarterly Disbursement Report – a
report issued to the applicant detailing all
invoicing activity (BEARs and SPIs) during
the previous quarter
171. E-rate Forms
Competitive
Bidding
Apply for
Discounts
Start
Services Invoice USAC
“I want a service.”
“I have chosen a
service provider.”
“I am receiving the
service.”
“I am paying my bills
– give me my money!”
Form 498 – to provide bank information for
direct reimbursement payments - 472 - BEARs.
470 471 486
472
474
172. NLC E-rate Website
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/erate/
• USAC's E-rate Fall 2022 Training Series -
Recordings of online sessions held in
October and November 2022
• USAC Videos and Webinars - step-by-step
tutorials on each E-rate form.
• USAC Form User Guides and Instructions -
PDF
173. Getting help
SLD Client Service Bureau (CSB)
– 1-888-203-8100
– EPC – Contact Us link
USAC website:
https://www.usac.org/e-rate/
174. Questions???
Christa Porter
Library Development Director,
State E-rate Coordinator for
Nebraska Public Libraries
Nebraska Library Commission
800-307-2665
christa.porter@nebraska.gov
http://nlc.nebraska.gov/erate/
Editor's Notes
October13, 2003
October13, 2003
Installation – order equipment online, Amazon, etc. Have someone local install it.
October13, 2003
Official reminder letters will still be sent, but also notifications will be pushed to your portal account.
User name and Password instead of PIN to know who you are.
Tasks – Forms in process. Undone things – things that need to be done.
Can Discard forms you have started by accident or don’t want to use anymore. Don’t just let them sit there because system will keep sending you reminders to finish it.
Red * = Required
Save & Share – send to someone else to continue or submit/certify.
Nickname – you are not going to remember all the different 10 digit numbers that USAC will assign to each form you submit. And you want something you will remember so you can tell each years’ forms apart.
Landing Page is your home page. USAC logo brings you back to your Landing Page.
October13, 2003
Customer Service Record – heard bad things about them, or had bad experience yourself with them, don’t want to work with them.