Funding and Data

Created out of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the E-Rate Program is intended to provide discounts on telecommunications services, internet access, and internal connections to libraries and schools.  The “E” stands for Education.  The program is administered by the Schools and Libraries Division, which is a part of the Universal Service Administrative Company, on behalf of the Federal Communications Commission.

The Library Development and Networking Division assists public libraries in understanding the E-Rate process, navigating the rules and regulations, preparing technology plans, and completing applications.

Resources:

• • 2022-23 Library of Virginia E-Rate Report
  • Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) – Virginia State Report (May 2023)
  • E-Rate Central Services to Virginia Libraries (FY23-24)

Videos:

• Introduction to E-Rate [E-Rate for Virginia Libraries – 10.25.23]
  • Passcode: A42+=z?a
  • This one-hour webinar is an introduction to E-Rate and is designed to provide a high-level overview of the federal E-rate discount program as it relates to library entities, including the procurement process, program timeline, and required documents. (Presented by E-Rate Central)
  • Slides
• Introduction to E-Rate [E-Rate for Virginia Libraries – 10.15.20]
  • This one-hour webinar is an introduction to E-Rate and is designed to provide a high-level overview of the federal E-rate discount program as it relates to library entities, including the procurement process, program timeline, and required documents. (Presented by E-Rate Central)
  • Slides
• Preparing for Funding Year 2021 [E-Rate for Virginia Libraries – 10.20.20]
  • A one-hour webinar detailing the procurement process, program timeline, eligible services, and current and proposed rules in advance of Funding Year 2021-22. (Presented by E-Rate Central)
  • Slides

Connecting Our Communities:

The Library of Virginia, the Governor’s broadband office, and the VCTA – Broadband Association of Virginia will present affordable broadband connection options and review essential broadband relief funding sources such as the Emergency Broadband (EBB)Program and the Emergency Connectivity Fund.  These programs provide and promote low-cost internet programs to low-income households. The EBB is an ISP (Internet Service Provider) managed program, not a library managed program like E-rate. Public libraries can a vital role in supporting these programs and connecting our communities.

Watch the recording

E-Rate Central – Virginia Libraries Team:

Contracts with the Library of Virginia to provide consulting services for E-Rate applicants.  E-Rate Central has an entire team assigned to work with Virginia libraries. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the team who will be working with you to ensure a successful filing process.

• Kerri Dillon, CEMP – Kerri is the current president of the E-Rate Management Professionals Association (E-mpa®) and is a Certified E-Rate Management Professional. Contact: kdillon@e-ratecentral.com or (516) 801-7808.
• Eric Silverstein – Joined E-Rate Central in 2020 bringing with him experience in marketing, account management, and other client-facing roles within several industries. Contact: esilverstein@e-ratecentral.com or (516) 801-7827
• Michael Ocampo -Joined E-Rate Central in 2019 bringing years of experience in information technology operations, corporate compliance, training, human resources, debt collection, and various customer service call center roles.  Contact: mocampo@e-ratecentral.com or 516-801-7868.
• Mel Van Patten, CEMP – a Certified E-Rate Management Professional, (CEMP) and the former President of the E-Rate Management Professionals Association. Contact: mvanpatten@e-ratecentral.com or (516) 801-7828.

Questions?  Contact:

Kerri Dillon, CEMP
E-Rate Central
kdillon@e-ratecentral.com
516-801-7808 (phone)

Cindy Church
State E-Rate Coordinator
Library of Virginia
cindy.church@lva.virginia.gov
804.692.3773

Amounts:

• ADOPTED – FY23 State Aid to Localities & FY24 State Aid  (9.28.23)
• DRAFT – FY24 State Aid to Localities & FY25 Proposed State Aid  (9.28.23)

Rules & Regulations:

• Requirements
• FY25 Instructions
• Documentation Schedule

Forms:

• FY25 State Aid Application
  • Due: Before June 1, 2024
  • If you prefer to mail hard copies, send two (2) with original signatures to:
    • The Library of Virginia, c/o Paranita Carpenter, Library Development and Networking Division, 800 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA  23219
  • If you prefer to e-mail the form, send one (1) attachment to:
    • Kim Armentrout (kim.armentrout@lva.virginia.gov
  • Form Questions?  Contact Paranita Carpenter (paranita.carpenter@lva.virginia.gov)

Payments:

FY2024 – Four (4) quarterly state aid payments will be disbursed from the Department of Accounts according to the following schedule:

* EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) deposits to designated banks
* Paper checks (non-EDI) should be received by the locality

State Aid Formula:

Code of Virginia § 42.1 – 48 contains the formula.

Proration of State Aid:

Code of Virginia 42.1 – 50 requires the Library of Virginia to prorate the state aid grants any time the General Assembly fails to provide sufficient funds.