Universal Service Fund (USF)

Schools & Libraries

This support, commonly referred to as E-rate support, provides affordable telecommunications and Internet access services to connect schools and libraries to the Internet. This support goes to service providers that provide discounts on eligible services to eligible schools, school districts, libraries, and consortia of these entities.

"E-Rate" provides discounts to most schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access.

"Discounts" range from 20% to 90% of the capital and ongoing costs based upon the level of poverty and urban / rural.

E-Rate Example

• Baltimore County School District had a 2006 commitment from the E-Rate program for: $1,512,732
• Philadelphia School District: $6,619,496
• Pittsburg School District: $1,382,482
• Central Cambria School District: $35,271