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E-Rate Training Sessions

MBLC E-rate consultant, Aleck Johnson, of EdTech Strategies, will leading a series of E-rate training sessions for Massachusetts public libraries. Trainings will include: a general overview of the program; procurement, evaluation and selection of vendors; receipt of service and invoicing; and compliance with CIPA, the Children's Internet Protection Act.

Funding Year 26 (Fiscal Year 27) Series

Procurement Overview (9/24/25)

In this first of our series of funding year 26 (FY27 - July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027) E-Rate webinars, Aleck Johnson from EdTech Strategies will cover:

  • What's new with E-Rate
  • Introduction to E-Rate and funding year 2026 process and dates
  • Review of E-Rate eligible services (including new Category 2 budgets!)
  • Procurement process, including guidelines, procurement basics, and alternatives to the Form 470

Full Slides / Notes
Recording

Form 470

This webinar covers:

  • E-Rate Updates over the past week
  • Filing the form 470, including a complete step-by-step demonstration of the process

Full Slides / Notes
Recording

Older Webinars

These webinars are from previous years, but contain general information or are still useful in some way. Please always doublecheck any specific dates or recommendations which may be discussed.

Benefits of E-rate (9/19/23)

In this meeting – the first of a series of meetings and trainings – we hear from three Massachusetts libraries that have used E-rate to upgrade their technology infrastructure.  They share information about the benefits they’ve reaped, the challenges they’ve faced, and share how they have effectively taken advantage of the program.  We also cover MBLC’s new initiative to help interested libraries take advantage of the program, including upcoming trainings and support resources.

Contact

E-rate Questions & Help

Aleck Johnson, EdTech Strategies
(MBLC consultant)
ajohnson@edtechstrategies.net

State E-rate coordinator (libraries)

Kate Butler, Library Information Systems Specialist
617-725-1860 x253
857-488-6345 (Mobile)
kate.butler@mass.gov