What are E-Rate and EOR?

E-Rate and EOR provide funding that, when combined together, can fully cover the cost of a public library’s internet service costs.

E-Rate is the common name for the universal service Schools and Libraries Program, which is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). E-rate discounts can range from 20% to 90% of the costs of eligible services (including internet service costs) and can be provided as a discount on the bill from the service provider to the library or as a reimbursement directly to the library.

The Education Opportunity Resource (EOR) Act, as stated in Idaho Code §33-5602 through 33-5605, makes the Idaho Commission for Libraries (ICfL) responsible for reimbursing Idaho public libraries for the after E-rate discount portion of approved broadband services. These state broadband reimbursements are available to eligible libraries three times per year as outlined in the Reimbursement Schedule (PDF). The Broadband Reimbursement Overview (PDF) provides more information about the process.

EOR Reimbursement Schedule

The Idaho Commission for Libraries (ICfL) is responsible for distributing internet service cost reimbursements to public libraries through the Education Opportunity Resource (EOR) Act. EOR reimbursements cover the internet service costs that remain after the federal E-Rate discounts. The ICfL issues EOR reimbursements three times a year.

Mark your calendars! Libraries must submit invoices by each deadline below to be eligible to receive EOR reimbursement funds. Late invoice submissions will not be accepted.

EOR Reimbursement Schedule. See long description below.

Questions? Contact ICfL Library Technology Consultant Doug Baker at 208-639-4173 or doug.baker@libraries.idaho.gov.

Phase 1

Invoices for July, August, September, October, November, and December are due on January 10. Reimbursements for these invoices will be issued in February.

Phase 2

Invoices for January, February, March, and April are due on May 10. Reimbursements for these invoices will be issued in May.

Phase 3

Invoices for May and June are due on July 10. Reimbursements for these invoices will be issued in August.

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What about school libraries?

E-rate and EOR are also available to schools and school libraries. The Idaho State Department of Education Technology Services has more information available on E-Rate and EOR for interested schools and school libraries.