[OPLINTECH] Broadband stimulus misunderstanding? #ARRA

[Stephen Hedges]

 From some questions I have been getting from libraries, I think there 
has been some misunderstanding about any statewide application for ARRA 
broadband stimulus funds to support public computing centers:

1) Some libraries thought that completing the online survey from Connect 
Ohio automatically included their library in a statewide application.
This is not true. The data gathered will be used to support a couple of 
statewide applications, and can also be used by libraries to support an 
individual application that they wish to attach to a statewide application.

2) Some libraries thought that they would not need to do an individual 
application because the State Library is doing a statewide application.
This may be true in some instances. If your library is only interested 
in applying for computers, the State Library can include you in a 
statewide application, though you will still need to provide the funding 
match for the equipment. PLEASE NOTE: The State Library application will 
NOT include special equipment, improvements or expansions to facilities, 
or human resources. If your project is complex or includes facilities, 
expansion, or human resources, you will need to prepare an individual 
application.

Connect Ohio will be aggregating the data provided by the surveys, and 
adding census and survey data for your service area. This will help to 
justify your request for computers, training, and any needed facilities 
expansion. Connect Ohio plans to provide the data no later than February 
13th to all of the libraries who completed the survey.

Once the data has been compiled, you will have two options to use it 
toward an application for your location(s):

1) Construct and submit your own application to the ARRA Program. The 
applications will be received online at http://www.broadbandusa.gov/ 
starting on February 16th, with a deadline of March 15th. A Fact Sheet 
(http://www.ntia.doc.gov/broadbandgrants/factsheets/BTOPNOFA2_factsheet_012910.pdf) 
is available to provide the specific rules.

2) If you’d like help applying for a grant, the State Library has 
offered to help FOR EQUIPMENT ONLY. If you will be applying only for 
computers, the State Library can apply on your behalf for computers, 
budgeted at $600 each. You will need to provide a commitment for $125 
each for the matching funds required, which can take the form of a Board 
Resolution letter. The QUANTITY of computers requested, and 
clarification of LAPTOPS or DESKTOPS QUANTITY will be required no later 
than FEBRUARY 26, 2010.

NOTE that if your request will include facilities, other equipment, or 
training staff, it will be necessary to complete your own application 
(option 1 above). This is because of the reporting requirements that the 
grantor will need to audit the awards. The State Library is unable to 
monitor the wages or hours worked for trainers over the duration of the 
award period, and cannot monitor construction or the delivery of 
specialized equipment, and therefore cannot request funding for these items.

Even if you are unable to complete the grant requirements yourself, and 
would like the State Library’s help with the computer request (option 2 
above), you will STILL HAVE ACCESS TO A SELF-DIRECTED CURRICULUM for 
helping patrons use the computers effectively. Connect Ohio and the 
State Library will work together to provide a "How to" sheet that can be 
provided to patrons who can take themselves through the Learning Express 
curriculum and will work to ensure that these patrons are eligible for 
subsidized broadband access and/or home computers, if needed.

Matching funds are required for ANY submission, and are one of the 
largest barriers for an applicant. If you are unsure where to find 
matching funds, Connect Ohio can provide some ideas. The possibility of 
gaining commitments from local foundations, corporations, internet 
service providers, or in-kind assets which could be contributed to the 
project are worth exploring. In some cases, Connect Ohio can help to 
approach local broadband providers to ask for their help in the form of 
discounted broadband service for "graduates" of the training you provide.

Connect Ohio will be making application for support services to 
complement your applications. This request will be for statewide 
technical support, Train-the-Trainer, Public Awareness & Advertisement 
of the training program, and a small fund for spare equipment and 
continuing curriculum management. This application will support the 
libraries' local and statewide applications and will reference each 
community library application as integral to the overall project. If 
funded, this support structure should bring patrons to the program and 
provide technical assistance, curriculum, and help with scheduling and 
curriculum delivery.

As noted, Connect Ohio plans to provide the survey data no later than 
February 13th to all of the libraries who collected it. Please feel free 
to contact me, Missy Lodge (mlodge at sloma.state.oh.us) or your Connect 
Ohio representative with questions about the program. We are happy to 
assist.

-- 
Stephen Hedges, Director
Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN)
2323 W. Fifth Ave., Suite 130
Columbus, OH 43204
714-728-5250  ::  AIM: hedgesst