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American Library Association disappointed by FCC program takebacks, lack of due process in decision to end E-Rate hotspot lending rules
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YubaNet
Washington, D.C. (September 30, 2025) – The American Library Association (ALA) expressed disappointment with today’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC) vote to end E-Rate support for library and school hotspot lending programs, which provided critical connectivity to millions of public library patrons who lack reliable internet access at home.
“ALA is both disappointed by the FCC’s takebacks and discouraged by the lack of due process, which left no opportunity for staff, patrons and library advocates to give input on the draft order.
For years, we have engaged in the rulemaking process with good faith, partnering with the FCC to fulfill their mandate to make reliable, high-quality broadband available nationwide.
In Appalachian Ohio, the Brown County Public Library’s hotspot program allowed homeschool families to join virtual classes, entrepreneurs to run mobile businesses, and veterans to participate in telehealth appointments and certification testing.
Although disappointed by today’s outcome, ALA and its partners will continue to advocate for policies that expand broadband access and support libraries and other community anchor institutions.