Technology Plans
Please Note: E-rate no longer requires Technology Plans for libraries that are applying for Telephone OR Internet services ( Referred to as Priority 1 funding ) through the E-rate program This is due to a rule change that occurred in 2010 called the 6th Report and Order from the FCC.
This is not to discourage any library from creating a Technology plan. The State Library of Iowa still recommends technology plans for libraries as best practice and policy but supports the elimination of the required plan for E-rate funds for internet connections.
Every Iowa library that applies for the Universal Services Fund Discount Program for discounted internal connections (Internal Connections Or Priority 2 funding) must have an approved technology plan on file with the State Library of Iowa. Plans should cover at least three (3) years and include goals, strategies and budget information for three years.
Libraries that apply for e-rate discounts only for telephone service (POTs) or Internet services (Priority 1 funding) are not required to have a technology plan on file. Any service beyond telephone service or Internet connection services requires a technology plan. These services cover the Priority 2 level funding which deals with internal connections. If your library is seeking internal connections please contact your E-rate coordinator (Jay Peterson jay.peterson@lib.state.ia.us) Technology plans must be written and include a creation date (Preferably include a date that you have approved your tech plan with your governing board). Tech plans must include the four elements discussed below. After you create a tech plan and submit it to the State Library for approval you may fill out a form 470.
Why does my library need a technology plan?
More general information on writing a plan.
Writing a Technology Plan in Iowa
- Technology Plans must contain these required elements:
- I. Mission
- II. Goals and Strategies
- III. Assessment of Current Status
- IV. Staff Development
- V. Evaluation Plan
- Cover Page to be submitted with technology plan
- Submit to the State Library
