What is the E-Rate

The Schools and Libraries program, also called the "E-Rate program," makes telephone and Internet access service more affordable for schools and libraries in America. Congress mandated in 1996 that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) use the federal Universal Service Fund to provide support to companies that give discounts to eligible schools and libraries.
Contributions from telecommunications companies provide discounts of 20-90% on the cost of telecommunications, Internet access, and network wiring within library and school buildings. The discounts are paid directly to the companies that provide libraries and schools with these services.
Libraries and schools in low-income urban communities and rural areas qualify for the highest discounts to assure that every American, regardless of age, income, or location, has access to the Internet.

Additional Information

Internet Use Policies
Aid to develop Internet Use Policies; specifics on meeting CIPA, NCIPA requiriements for e-rate applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions about E-Rate
Frequently Asked Questions about E-Rate
E-Rate Audits
Information related to e-rate audits.

Related Sites

Iowa Database
Information from Iowa Department of Education; includes Powerpoints of training sessions E-rate 101 - Newcomers; E-rate 102 - Form 470; E-rate 103 - Form 471.
E-Rate Central
Specializes in providing consulting, compliance, and forms processing services to E-rate applicants and service providers.
Telecommunications Act 1996
Established the requirements to provide discounted telecommunications
Overview
Summarizes the process schools and libraries follow to apply for and receive support.
FCC E-rate Fact Sheet
This program is part of the Federal Universal Service Fund. Frequently asked questions about the Schools and Libraries program
Process Flowchart
Application process diagram
E-rate timeline
Table outlining process and e-rate years
Library Spot Reference Site
Resource Center
FCC Home Page
On May 7, 1997 the FCC released its ruling on Universal Service, popularly known as the E-rate.
E-rate and Libraries
ALA Web site with E-rate Updates

Last modified March 14, 2008 10:25 AM