Idaho Commission for Libraries

You may be aware that legislation was passed that created the Idaho Education Network*. Public libraries are included in this legislation. What this means, in a practical sense, is that the State of Idaho is committed to a build-out of bandwidth that is necessary to provide educational opportunities to schools and other entities such as public libraries.

As part of this effort, the Department of Administration submitted an establishing Form 470 for Internet Service Providers to bid on. One of the accepted bidders is ENA (Education Networks of America). As such, they can provide e-rate discounted internet access to your library off of the state contract - and you don't have to file a 470!

Here's what ENA would do: 1) provide commercial-grade internet connectivity (assuming that the capability is there in locations that are interested); 2) offer discounts off of the bill rather than a reimbursement; 3) handle filtering issues (as an enhancement to the internet service) by either providing a temporary login for adults, or a permanent login for those (adult) library patrons who wish it; 4) would give a bid to interested libraries.

Since IEN is in its early stages, ICFL would like to know if you might be interested in an exploration of what ENA has to offer your library. Please contact me with further questions or if you are interested in this exploration -

jan.wall@libraries.idaho.gov

*"IEN means the coordinated, statewide telecommunications distribution system for distance learning for each public school, including two-way interactive video, data, internet access and other telecommunications services for providing distance learning. The term also includes connections to each institution of higher education and other locations as necessary to facilitate distance education, teacher training and other related services." For more information on IEN, go to I.C. 67-5745D - http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/idstat/Title67/T67CH57SECT67-5745D.htm