E-Rate is a federal discount program for telecommunications and internet services for schools and libraries. It provides discounts of up to 90% on eligible services and equipment, thus allowing libraries and communities to stretch their dollars and get more for less. One Statewide Consulting Librarian was tasked with assisting Montana public libraries with E-Rate by keeping library applicants apprised of deadlines and requirements, reviewing applications, serving as a liaison between USAC (Universal Service Administrative Company) and Montana library applicants, answering questions about the program, and providing training and one-on-one assistance as needed. This librarian helped 14 libraries file 18 funding requests during this reporting period for a funds committed amount of $31,494.03. 

In 2019, this Statewide Consulting Librarian also assisted a private vendor with completing the Toward Gigabit Libraries Internet 2.0 Toolkit for every public library and branch in Montana. MSL worked with Simmons University in Boston to do an in-depth analysis of this data. The resulting report and data visualizations helped guide efforts to assist libraries with their internet needs. The beginning steps have been taken to improve broadband by upgrading public library networking equipment and cabling. $650,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds are being allocated for this project. Approximately 30 libraries will be upgraded. The State Library has hired a contractor to complete site assessments, recommend equipment, work with a cabling contractor, and install equipment. Each library site is unique, so their equipment and cabling needs will vary. The main goal of this project is to improve Internet access for the public by increasing Internet speeds at the library and improving Wi-Fi/wired network reliability. 

MSL continued to manage its mobile hotspot and device program for libraries across the state. These devices provide vital internal access to Montanans who may otherwise be unable to do everyday activities such as complete schoolwork, file online forms, or simply enjoy streaming content. Hotspots and devices were deployed to participating libraries, and MSL tracked usage, managed maintenance issues, and answered questions from the libraries about the program. During this reporting period, 89 libraries participated in the program. The 959 hotspots distributed across the state circulated 7,278 times and more than 550,000 GB of data were used.

Overall circulation and data usage for this program has continued to increase and is expected to continue to increase. 

Statewide Consulting Librarians assisted libraries with a variety of questions and issues throughout the reporting period. Most of the consulting questions were about local Montana library issues. The other popular subject areas were technology, finance, library laws and operations, and personnel. COVID-19 impacted the kinds of consulting questions that were received. Most of the library operations questions were about when to close, when to open, how to safely open the library, and other issues related to providing library services during a global pandemic.

Statewide Consulting Librarians hosted and/or attended board meetings during this time, and made 30 site visits where they discussed a wide range of topics with library directors and board members, and also conducted 56 consultation sessions with library directors and staff.