Idaho Commission for Libraries: E-Rate & Broadband Grant Program

The Idaho Commission for Libraries offers the E-Rate & Broadband Grant Program, which helps public libraries cover internet service costs. Libraries can receive significant discounts on eligible services through the E-rate program, with state reimbursements available for the remaining costs. Timely submission of invoices is crucial for eligibility. This funding opportunity is vital for enhancing digital access in Idaho's libraries, ensuring they can provide essential online resources to their communities.

NOTE: Libraries must submit invoices by the deadlines here to be eligible to receive EOR reimbursement. Late invoice submissions will not be accepted.
What are E-rate and EOR?
E-rate and EOR provide funding that, when combined together, can fully cover the cost of a public library’s internet service costs.
E-rate is the common name for the universal service Schools and Libraries Program, which is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). E-rate discounts can range from 20% to 90% of the costs of eligible services (including internet service costs) and can be provided as a discount on the bill from the service provider to the library or as a reimbursement directly to the library.
The Education Opportunity Resource (EOR) Act, as stated in Idaho Code §33-5602 through 33-5605, makes the Idaho Commission for Libraries (ICfL) responsible for reimbursing Idaho public libraries for the after E-rate discount portion of approved broadband services. These state broadband reimbursements are available to eligible libraries every six months.