The FCC has made the Tribal Libraries Pilot Program permanent. The new program, the Tribal Library E-Rate Advocacy Program (T-LEAP), provides one-on-one assistance to help Tribal libraries work through the E-rate application process.
The E-rate program helps libraries and schools get affordable broadband. In July 2023, additional rules were implemented that expanded eligibility to Tribal college and university (TCU) libraries that also act as public libraries in their communities. TCUs can apply for E-rate support if they have a dedicated staff, regular hours, and serve the public.
The pilot program was conducted in the 2023 and 2024 funding years. In both years, applicant Tribal libraries collectively received $100,000 in assistance in its E-rate applications. T-LEAP will use this framework, which includes assigning advocates through USAC to help the applicant libraries throughout the year.
“Libraries are an important source for Internet access, which is especially true on Tribal lands, where access can be very limited and residents lack the tools needed at home to connect,” Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a press release.
“We want to do everything possible to make sure Tribal communities have full access to the digital age, and this advocacy program will provide direct support to these groups as they navigate the E-rate application process.”
In August, Larra Clark, the FCC’s Deputy Director of the American Library Association’s (ALA) Public Policy and Advocacy Office and Deputy Director of the Public Library Association, described the benefits of libraries making Wi-Fi hotspots available. She told Telecompetitor such lending, which is available through the E-Rate program, is a complement to broadband connections, not a replacement.
The FCC is not the only entity working to improve broadband on Tribal lands, of course. Earlier this month Nokia said that it and Centranet, an electrical cooperative, are working on a commercial trial of a 50 Gbps fiber connection for the Sac and Fox nation.
