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FCC Encyclopedia

Universal Service Program for Schools and Libraries (E-Rate)

The Schools and Libraries program, also known as the E-rate program, makes telecommunications and information services more affordable for schools and libraries in America. Congress mandated in 1996 that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) use the federal Universal Service Fund (USF) to provide discounted eligible telecommunications, Internet access, and internal connections to eligible schools and libraries.

To learn more about the Universal Service program for schools and libraries, see our consumer guide.

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