The E-rate Hotspot Program has developed from the FCC's Learn without Limits initiative and the lessons learned from the Emergency Connectivity Program. For a good, library-focused overview of the program, check out ALA's Learn Without Limits information page. ALA has also developed a library-focused FAQ on the hotspot program.
For all of the details from the FCC, you can read the full Report and Order, which includes federal program rules.
There are currently eLearning Modules available from USAC, the E-rate program administrators. Check out these two sections of Module 2 in particular:
- C1: Wi-Fi Hotspots for Off Premises Use (Data Transmission)
- C1: Wi-Fi Hotspots for Off Premises Use (Equipment)
For your consideration, OPLIN has requested consortia bids for the FY2025 E-Rate Hotspot Program. The full RFP can be found here. The allowable contract date for this Form 470 has passed, and we have received bids from these three vendors:
- AT&T
- Kajeet, as distributed by CDWG
- T-Mobile
To use these bids, first determine your bid evaluation criteria; the selected bid must be the most cost-effective bid, and price must be the most heavily weighted factor. Then you may contact the vendor to request a contract for your local library. The contact information for each vendor is as follows:
| Vendor | Contact | Phone | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | Garrett Gauntner | 614-787-3025 | garrett.gauntner@att.com | |
| CDWG/Kajeet | Ryan Marron | 312-547-2877 | ryamarr@cdwg.com | With Kajeet, you can choose service from AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile |
| T-Mobile | Zachary Shields | 216-276-3462 | Zachary.Shields1@T-Mobile.com |
If you choose to use one of the OPLIN consortia bids to file a Form 471, please make sure to reference OPLIN's Form 470 #250006641.
Wednesday, March 26 is the last day to file an FCC Form 471 for the FY2025 application filing window.
Need help filing your Form 471? Check out Lorrie Germann's training video, or her handout (especially pages 12-29 and 78-99), or contact Christine Morris to schedule a one-on-one filing session.
Questions? Contact OPLIN Support.