Tuesday, May 11, 2021
Emergency Connectivity Fund rules to be released May 10
On Monday, May 10, the FCC is expected to release the rules for the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF), providing funding for libraries to help patrons get connected at home. I’ll send you a synopsis of the rules within a few days of their release. We have tentatively scheduled an ECF for Wednesday, April 26 at 1:00 PM -- stay tuned for details.
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Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) registration opens May 12
Starting on Wednesday May 12, eligible households will be able to enroll in the EBB program to receive discounted broadband service -- $50/month off, and $75 off on tribal lands. Residents can determine eligibility and apply at GetEmergencyBroadband.org, or through an approved provider.
EBB communication toolkit materials are now available for download. The toolkit is a collection of social media, printables, and other content to assist libraries and school districts with raising program awareness in their communities.
DPI will provide an EBB registration webinar on May 19 at 1:00 PM, where we will share ideas on how libraries can promote the program and set up EBB registration events. Chris Baker, adult services librarian at Portage Public Library, will join us to share his ideas, as Portage will have already conducted an EBB registration event. If you are aware of libraries that would like to join us and share their ideas on promoting the EBB, please let me know.
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Webinar Recording Posted - A recording of last Thursday's webinar, “Collaborating with Partners for Broadband Expansion,” is now posted. In it, innovators from around the state share examples of how they have leveraged resources within their community to collaboratively solve the broadband access problem.
Let me know if you have any thoughts or questions!
Bill Herman, bill.herman@dpi.wi.gov