[OPLINLIST] OPLIN assistance with branch internet

[Don Yarman]

Last call! *If you're currently paying for DSL or business-class cable
access for branch internet*, I encourage you to take another look at this
project.

Currently, 25 different library systems have submitted a total of 57 of
their branches to be listed on this statewide call for bids. And it's truly
statewide, representing rural, urban and suburban libraries in all areas of
Ohio. The more locations we have listed, the more attractive this will be
for broadband providers.

The form <https://oplin.ohio.gov/branch470> is easy to complete, and
there's no obligation. As always, the OPLIN staff and I are happy to talk
to you and answer any questions you have. You can reach us about this
project at branch470 at oplin.ohio.gov.


                    Don Yarman (he/him/his)
                    Director, Ohio Public Library Information Network
                    2323 W Fifth Ave Suite 130, Columbus OH 43204
                    don at oplin.ohio.gov | 614.728.5250


On Fri, Oct 28, 2022 at 10:50 AM Don Yarman <don at oplin.ohio.gov> wrote:

> While OPLIN provides library systems with their primary internet
> connection, connecting branches has been something libraries have had to do
> on their own. We think we've come up with a way to help.
>
> In December, OPLIN plans to release a statewide, competitive bidding
> opportunity for broadband vendors to provide library branch circuits. *OPLIN
> can't pay for the branch circuits*, but by issuing a statewide RFP
> through the E-rate system, we can draw more vendor attention (and hopefully
> better pricing) than libraries have seen acting on their own. Libraries
> could then request E-rate discounts against the bids that OPLIN receives.
>
> If you're interested, visit https://oplin.ohio.gov/branch470, where
> you'll find a simple form. You'll have two options with where your branch
> connections go: either back to the main/central library, or directly to the
> OPLIN core. Filling out the form does not obligate you to follow through on
> a contract.
>
> There's a link from the form page to a 4-minute video explanation
> <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFqcFqLVTHQ> with a little more detail.
> Every situation is a little bit different, though, so we're happy to answer
> questions and talk to you about your local scenario. Feel free to reach out
> to me directly, or email branch470 at oplin.ohio.gov.
>
>                     Don Yarman (he/him/his)
>                     Director, Ohio Public Library Information Network
>                     2323 W Fifth Ave Suite 130, Columbus OH 43204
>                     don at oplin.ohio.gov | 614.728.5250
>
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