Libraries

On June 4, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission circulated a combined Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that could fundamentally reshape the E-Rate program—the federal Universal Service Fund (USF) program that has subsidized telecommunications and internet access for schools and libraries since 1997.

I welcome the Federal Communications Commission's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on reforms to the E-Rate program to better protect children, including by addressing excessive screen time in schools. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration was grateful for the opportunity to work closely with the FCC on this important effort. In December 2025, NTIA convened a public listening session on the drivers and consequences of excessive screen use in schools, bringing together parents, educators, and child development experts from across the country.

Land-grant universities across the south are addressing the growing demand for digital connectivity in rural areas by leading research-based efforts to expand broadband, strengthen digital skills, and connect communities to essential services. By leveraging Extension networks and agricultural research, these universities are helping rural communities stay connected, competitive and prepared for the future.

ConnectLA announced the launch of the ÉTOUFFÉE program and the opening of a grant application portal, providing eligible organizations serving Louisiana communities with access to digital devices and digital skills resources. The program is designed to equip organizations with technology resources that support workforce development, education and health-related services in communities across the state.

The Mary S. Biesecker Public Library in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, created the Library Internet Checkout Program in partnership with T-Mobile, allowing residents to “checkout” home internet service like they would a book.

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr announced that the Commission has sent three Letters of Inquiry to Minnesota educational institutions to investigate potential misuse of federal funds disbursed through the E-Rate program. This marks the latest effort by the Commission to combat fraud, waste, and abuse in Universal Service Fund programs. The USF’s E-Rate program helps schools and libraries obtain affordable telecommunications and information services so students, teachers, and library patrons can take advantage of online opportunities.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development invites grant applications to build community-oriented, high-speed internet networks for people in rural areas. USDA Rural Development is making approximately $17 million available under the Community Connect Grant Program. The program provides financial assistance to eligible applicants that will provide broadband service in rural, economically challenged communities where service does not exist.

Mission Telecom announced Project: Volume Up, a nationwide initiative designed to help public libraries launch or expand hotspot lending programs in their communities. To introduce the project, Mission Telecom brings together hardware, nationwide 4G and 5G coverage, and nonprofit pricing into a single, ready-to-launch solution—so libraries can quickly get hotspot programs up and running.

The Federal Communications Commission's Wireline Competition Bureau announced that there is sufficient funding available to fully meet the Universal Service Administrative Company’s estimated demand for category one and category two requests for E-Rate-supported services for funding year 2026. On April 6, 2026, USAC submitted a demand estimate for the E-Rate program for funding year 2026. USAC estimates the total demand for funding year 2026 will be $3.5 billion, which includes estimated demand of $1.7 billion for category one services, and of $1.8 billion for category two services. The FCC

The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) submitted the federal Universal Service Support Mechanisms fund size and administrative cost projections for the third quarter of calendar year 2026 (3Q2026). Upon approval of the quarterly funding requirements for the Support Mechanisms, the projected administrative expenses, and the submission of the contribution base amount, the Federal Communications Commission will establish a quarterly contribution factor.