E-Rate Funding Faces Threat to Library Access

The American Library Association and its partners are working to protect E-Rate, a 30-year-old program providing broadband access to libraries and schools across the United States. E-Rate, funded through the Universal Service Fund, currently provides over $2 billion annually to approximately 73% of public libraries and 96% of public schools.

Opponents argue the program is no longer necessary due to its success, but advocates emphasize the ongoing need for digital infrastructure investment. Library directors in Alaska, Idaho, and Washington State detailed E-Rate’s impact on their communities.

In Utqiaġvik, Alaska, the library is a primary internet source for residents. In rural Idaho, the Donnelly Public Library relies on E-Rate to provide public access, while Sno-Isle Libraries in Washington State anticipates up to $200,000 in reimbursements for network infrastructure during the 2026 to 2030 funding cycle. The ALA and the Schools, Health, and Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition are urging Congress to maintain E-Rate funding, and will host a webinar on July 16 to educate the public on how to advocate for the program.