FCC, Library Agency Join on E-rate Awareness for Tribes

The FCC and the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services sent letters to all 574 tribal leaders raising awareness about E-rate as part of a new partnership aimed at expanding broadband to tribal libraries, said a news release Wednesday. Tribal libraries' access was "often difficult" because of how the rules were written, said Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, noting that a January order amending the program's definition of a tribal library will let them apply during the current funding application window (see 2201270030). "This recent rule change will have a significant impact on the ability of tribal libraries to help connect their patrons," the letter said, asking tribal leaders to share information about the program.