[PL-Directors] E-Rate Needs Assessment ACTION REQUESTED

[MaryKay Dahlgreen]

Dear Public Library Directors,

As you are probably aware, the E-rate Program underwent significant changes in 2014 (see summary<https://www.fcc.gov/general/universal-service-program-schools-and-libraries-e-rate>) and includes a substantial increase in funds available to schools and public libraries, and changes in the way those funds can be utilized.

The State Library is extremely interested in determining how we can best assist libraries in taking advantage of these changes and finding ways to support your participation in the E-rate Program. To that end, we have hired a consultant who is  performing a needs assessment and will be providing recommendations. Additionally, the LSTA Council and the Board of Trustees have approved a budget of $25,000 to implement the consultant's recommendations.

The first step in this needs assessment process is a survey that I am asking each of you to take - you should be able to complete it in 10-15 minutes. The deadline for the survey is Friday, July 8th. The survey link is: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/OregonErate

Even if you have never participated in the E-rate Program and/or currently have no plans to do so, we need to hear from you!

After July 8, the consultant will also conduct a focus group that will include selected library directors. Based on your input and experiences, the consultant will then compile a report and make recommendations. The State Library will discuss the results of the report and begin implementing recommendations that are most suitable based on needs, cost and staff availability.

If you have any questions or concerns about the survey or anything else about the process, please contact Darci Hanning (darci.hanning at state.or.us<mailto:darci.hanning at state.or.us> or 503-378-2527) and she will be happy to help.

I want to thank you for your time and I look forward to sharing the results and recommendations with each of you.

Regards,
MaryKay

MaryKay Dahlgreen
Oregon State Librarian
503-378-4367
marykay.dahlgreen at state.or.us
http://oregon.gov/osl






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