Managed Branch Connections

Let OPLIN do the work to connect your library branches to the internet.

OPLIN will contract with a service provider to deliver one gigabit service to each branch; we will pay the charges and file for E-rate reimbursements. Once a year, the library will get a bill for $2,000 per branch.

Get started by filling out the form.

 

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Will the $2,000 per circuit be billed monthly or annually?

OPLIN's fiscal year is July 1 – June 30, and we will bill libraries annually, probably in January. If service starts later than July 1, the invoice will be pro-rated.

 

What speeds can libraries expect from these new circuits?

One gigabit per second is the minimum desired broadband speed for "community anchor institutions" such as library buildings. That should be sufficient for most library branch needs, but if a location is exceeding that capacity, OPLIN will work with the library for an upgrade.

 

Can the library receive E-rate discounts on the $2,000 bill from OPLIN?

No. OPLIN is filing for E-rate discounts for the circuit we provide you. The cost to the library is based on the average cost of gigabit-service and the average E-rate discount statewide. Since the average statewide discount is about 65%, this means libraries with higher discount rates (80–90%) will pay more for an OPLIN-managed connection than they would by contracting directly with a vendor and filing for E-rate. It is up to each library to decide whether the convenience is worth the cost. 

 

Do these circuits connect directly to OPLIN, or can they connect to my main library's network?

The initial form asks whether you want the circuit to connect to your central/main library or to the OPLIN core.

• Connect your branch to your main library. Your branch's network will be a layer 2 extension of your main library's network. Both buildings will receive Internet access through the OPLIN router at your main library.
• Connect your branch to the OPLIN core. Your branch will connect directly to the internet through OPLIN's network, independent of your main library's network.

OPLIN staff will work with you and your IT provider to determine which option fits best in your environment.

 

Can I substitute OPLIN's service for my current contract?

Most vendors will charge libraries an early termination fee (usually about 50% of the remaining months on the contract) to cancel their current service.

 

Whom do I call for support or to resolve issues?

You would contact OPLIN Support to resolve issues. As a major customer of the service providers, OPLIN has access to elevated technical support.