Libraries

The cost of online access for schools and libraries across Alaska could increase dramatically if a long-standing federal subsidy ends. The Federal Communications Commission is reviewing the E-rate program that for three decades has helped schools and libraries across the nation lower their connectivity costs. In the past, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has suggested the subsidy should be reduced or eliminated. Alaska school leaders and public librarians are worried about a potential cut at a time when districts are already struggling with budget deficits.

The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) projects a consolidated budget of $68.06 million for the federal Universal Service Support Mechanism in 4Q2026. Direct costs for all support mechanisms total $30.53 million. Joint and common costs (including billing, collection, and disbursement activities) total $37.53 million. Universal Service Support Mechanisms include High Cost, Low Income, Rural Health Care, Schools and Libraries, and Connected Care Pilot. 

U.S. states and territories are making progress on their broadband goals this summer. A number of state-run initiatives have been launched, and several infrastructure projects are in full swing. While it's easy to have all eyes on the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program—and, hypocritically, more on that later—there are countless other actions states are taking to ensure robust broadband access and universal digital adoption. From infrastructure planning to deployment to increasing awareness and resources, states are doing it all.

On June 25, 2026, the FCC adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) and a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) seeking comment on a wide array of questions about how to update the E-Rate program to reflect how schools and students actually use the Internet.  This item is part of the FCC’s “top-to-bottom” review of all Universal Service Fund programs to promote efficiency, transparency, and accountability. The E-Rate program was created in an era when many schools and libraries lacked access to the Internet, or service would be too expensive for schools to purchase themselves.

Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA), the public agency expanding connectivity and digital opportunity statewide, announces $3.3 million in grant awards for capital improvements to make economic and social opportunity possible for individuals and communities through digital access.

The Oklahoma Broadband Office announced a new $14.5 million initiative to expand access to healthcare, workforce services, and digital skills training through Oklahoma's public libraries. The program will make up to 175 community access portals available to libraries across the state, creating new opportunities for Oklahomans to access essential services closer to home.

A group representing school superintendents told the Federal Communications Commission it is concerned the FCC's recent notice of proposed rulemaking on E-Rate could lead to the elimination of the program that funds connectivity for schools and libraries, an outcome the group says could lead to "staff reductions or cuts to other areas." The comments, summarizing a series of meetings between school and library advocates and FCC o

The Oklahoma Broadband Office announced a new $14.5 million initiative to expand access to healthcare, workforce services, and digital skills training through Oklahoma's public libraries.

The E-Rate program, which helps connect schools and libraries to the internet at discounted rates, is under review by the Federal Communications Commission. Educators and advocates are bracing for the funding to shrink or be eliminated. The agency's recent focus on the program has left educators including David Thurston on edge. Thurston oversees technology for the 33 school districts nested inside California's San Bernardino County.

The Federal Communications Commission's move to potentially gut or end E-Rate is just the latest under Chairman Brendan Carr to place limits on the program.