The pandemic underscored the digital divide, but Ohio’s public libraries recognized the need for broadband connectivity long before the pandemic started. We know that a significant number of Ohioans still lack access to this basic utility.

Families struggling to afford the internet can apply for a discount on their monthly bills. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), provides eligible households discounts of up to $30 a month toward broadband service. The program replaces, expands, and makes permanent the FCC temporary Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, which helped low-income households afford internet service during the pandemic. ACP helps to ensure that eligible households can continue to afford internet connections needed for school, work, health care, and more.

Families can enroll at GetInternet.gov. Spanish-language site is available at AccedeaInternet.gov. Further application support is available through the ACP Support Center in over 200 languages. To contact the ACP Support Center, please call (877) 384-2575 or email ACPSupport@usac.org.

Public libraries are playing an important role in getting this information out to those who need internet access. The OLC has teamed up with BroadbandOhio and Ohio Connectivity Champions to help spread the word about the program. Informational flyers are available for download below. Please share them with your community.

NEW Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) flyers:

• Promotional flyer (PDF)
• Spanish version (PDF)