Description/Purpose
The Online With Libraries (OWL) Internet Cost Assistance Program is a noncompetitive funding opportunity that allows public libraries in Alaska to apply for internet assistance from the Alaska State Library through the OWL Program.
The Alaska Online With Libraries (OWL) Program is funded by the State of Alaska to:
- Provide Alaska residents access to high-speed internet and computing equipment in public libraries to access necessary online information and resources for education, employment, government services, health, and enjoyment.
- Bring the world to Alaska by connecting people from all areas of the state with other Alaskans and Americans through internet access and events, meetings, and training via videoconferencing.
- Reduce costs for libraries, agencies, and organizations by substituting travel for video meetings and visits.
- Provide information technology training to Alaska library staff and residents that will enhance future education, employment prospects, and quality of life.
The OWL Internet Cost Assistance Program provides supplementary funding for internet connectivity costs to public libraries in Alaska as part of the OWL program’s mission to provide Alaskans with the benefits and opportunities that come with access to high speed Internet.
Funding Source
The Online With Libraries (OWL) Program, which includes the OWL Internet Cost Assistance Program, is funded by the State of Alaska.
The Alaska State Library thanks the State of Alaska and Alaska State Legislature for appropriating dedicated funds to the OWL Program to support internet access in Alaska’s public libraries!
Eligibility
Public libraries in Alaska eligible to receive the Public Library Assistance (PLA) Grant are eligible to apply for the OWL Internet Cost Assistance Program.
Eligibility to receive an OWL Internet Assistance Program is based on four criteria:
- Status as a public library
- Monthly internet cost
- E-Rate percentage (if applicable - receipt of E-Rate is not required)
- Current FY operating budget
This funding opportunity applies to library internet only, it cannot be used to pay internet bills that include other departments’ or entities’ internet access.
Methodology
The OWL Internet Cost Assistance Program maximum award is determined based on these factors:
- Library’s Monthly Internet Cost
- E-Rate percentage (if applicable)
- Library’s Current FY Operating Budget
- Amount of funding available through the Alaska State Library
Supporting Documents Needed
Please provide the following documents with your application:
- Copies of the three most recent months of your library's internet bill from this fiscal year.
- Funding Commitment Decision Letter from USAC if your library receives E-Rate.
- An estimate of your annual internet cost.
- Documentation of your library's E-Rate percentage. This is only required if your library receives E-Rate and the E-Rate discount is not automatically applied to your bill.
- Documentation of your library's operating budget for the current fiscal year.
Save the following documents to file with your program report at the end of the award year:
- Documentation of your actual total internet costs for the award year.
Timeline for FY2025
- Complete applications with all attachments were due August 30, 2024 - the application period is now closed.
- Awards are announced after State Budget approval and DEED Grant Spending Plan approval.
- Signed agreements are due within 30 days of the award notification.
- Every effort will be made to send payouts to libraries within 30 days of receiving the agreements.
- Final Reports are due September 1, 2025.
Note that the State of Alaska runs on a July-June Fiscal Year. Fiscal Year 2025 runs from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.
Downloadable Documents
Questions?
Contact
Stacy R.J. Tomaszewski
Library Technology Consultant & OWL Program Manager
Mail: PO Box 110571, Juneau, AK 99811
Phone: 907.465.2921
Fax: 907.465.2151
Email: eed.owlprogram@alaska.gov
Alaska State Library
