ALA advances libraries’ role in digital equity as FCC shapes Learn Without Limits programs

Proposed FCC programs would fund hotspots and cybersecurity measures for libraries, schools

As policymakers turn their eyes toward new ways to provide high-speed internet connectivity across the nation, the American Library Association (ALA) is at the forefront of advocacy to ensure public libraries and their communities benefit from new funding opportunities. Since mid-January 2024, ALA has filed formal comments calling for improvements to the federal E-rate program through the Learn Without Limits initiative, unveiled at 2023 Annual Conference by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. The proposal calls for use of E-rate funding for off-premises internet access and a cybersecurity pilot program.    

In its comments, ALA affirmed support for making off-premises use of Wi-fi hotspots and services eligible for E-rate funding, citing examples of successful hotspot lending models in libraries throughout the country. Specifically, ALA called for the FCC to: 

• give libraries the utmost flexibility and responsibility in designing their programs and creating guidelines that work for patrons and staff;  

• acknowledge sensitive personally identifiable information and library policies to protect patron privacy; and  

• not apply CIPA rules to Wi-Fi hotspots when connected to patron-owned devices. Furthermore, CIPA should not apply to library networks if a library only uses E-rate to purchase hotspots.  

ALA commended the FCC for “approaching this rulemaking through the lens of digital equity and inclusion. Sustainable funding for Wi-Fi hotspot lending advances this framework by supporting un- and underserved communities through important community anchors, like libraries. Libraries are familiar, convenient, and trusted places to request support, work toward goals, and connect with services. To ensure the program best reaches those with the greatest need, the Commission must avoid drafting unnecessarily burdensome program rules.”    

“Learn Without Limits would enable libraries to leverage the strengths of E-rate to do what we do best: connect all our communities with the information, services and opportunities they need to thrive,” said ALA President Emily Drabinski. "ALA is excited about Learn Without Limits and looks forward to a successful program that serves people most in need of connection.”  

While hotspots provide flexibility to individuals who may lack home internet or who may not have sufficient access for the needs of the household, hotspots are not the right solution for all communities.  ALA comments also noted that and urged the FCC to consider defining “Wi-Fi hotspots” broadly and inclusively to ensure that E-rate funding supports any cost-effective wireless technology and service that provides internet access to library patrons off-premises. ALA joined the Schools, Health, and Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition and other national partners and stakeholders in a letter further endorsing the proposal and urging inclusive practices.  

Support for hotspots through the Learn Without Limits program comes amid concerns about the impact of the winding down of pandemic-era programs, including the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF). Over the last three years, more than 1,000 libraries provided Wi-Fi hotspots to connect patrons, including students, through more than $248 million in funding. The ECF sunsets on June 30, 2024, and ACP funding is expected to run out in April 2024. ALA advocated for and promoted library participation in both programs and is rallying library advocates to urge Congress to renew funding for the ACP.   

In addition to filling connectivity gaps through hotspot lending, the Learn Without Limits proposal includes a three-year, $200 million Cybersecurity Pilot Program for libraries and schools. Documenting numerous security issues and network breaches that libraries and schools confront, ALA filed comments urgently requesting the FCC to shorten the pilot period and to make cybersecurity tools eligible for E-rate support to provide near-term help to libraries while the pilot program gathers additional information to guide future cybersecurity policy improvements. ALA also joined colleagues from SHLB, the Consortium for School Networking, State Educational Technology Directors, and others to share with the FCC our concerns about the pilot and make recommendations that would benefit libraries and schools with urgent network security needs.  

“ALA fully supports the Learn Without Limits proposal. By making network security and off-premises connectivity tools available to communities nationwide, the E-rate program can support students, adult learners, jobseekers, families and all library patrons access the internet safely and when they need it,” said ALA President Emily Drabinski. “We look forward to continued work with the FCC to strengthen these programs and ensure libraries are accessing and leveraging these opportunities.”