Digital Equity Resources for Libraries

BEAD is a $42.45 billion program focused on building infrastructure to increase adoption of high-speed Internet and is administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). BEAD funding focuses first on increasing high-speed internet adoption to unserved areas (below 25/3Mbps), then underserved areas (below 100/20Mbps), and then community anchor institutions. BEAD strongly encourages collaboration with community organizations, like libraries. 

• Connected Nation: BEAD Tracker 
• NTIA: BEAD Progress Dashboard 
• NTIA: BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice 
• NTIA: Find Your State BEAD Plans 

As part of the BEAD program, States and Territories can apply remaining funds not used to build broadband infrastructure to support “non-deployment activities.” This includes broadband mapping, and planning; installing internet and Wi-Fi infrastructure; and broadband adoption. Libraries can leverage non-deployment funds to ensure their communities have the skills and devices needed to make the most of the BEAD investment. NTIA guidance on the use of non-deployment funds is currently under review, and the government may choose to reallocate the funding. Please utilize the following resources to learn more and advocate for BEAD funding. 

• ALA: Statement delivered to NTIA on the use of BEAD non-deployment funds  
• NDIA: Customizable templates 

It’s been one year since the Digital Equity Act (DEA) grant programs were canceled by the Trump Administration. For more information read our FAQ. The Digital Equity Act (DEA) is a $2.75 billion congressionally authorized program that funds state planning, state implementation of the plan, and national competitive grants and is administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The aim of the DEA is to ensure all communities can access affordable high-speed internet to meet their needs and improve their lives. 

• Public Libraries Online: One year Later: The Digital Equity Act Cancellation and Libraries  
• ALA joined a coalition letter to U.S. Senate and House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee leaders urging them to preserve funding for the Digital Equity Act (May 14, 2026)  
• ALA joined an amicus brief in support of plaintiff in NDIA v. Trump on the Digital Equity Act Competitive Grant Program (May 2026)   
• ALA: FAQ Cancellation of the Digital Equity Act Grant Programs  
• Public Libraries Online: What Does the Termination of the Digital Equity Act Grant Programs Mean for Libraries?  
• Benton Institute for the Broadband & Society  “The Digital Equity Act: What it is and Why We Need It”