Abstract:
We appreciate that H.R. 2 includes provisions that would:
• Connect Americans to affordable internet access by expanding hotspot and device lending by libraries and by bolstering digital inclusion initiatives.
• Modernize school library facilities by providing needed funding to improve school facilities, including school library spaces.
• Support green library facilities by increasing the energy efficiency of public buildings and tax-exempt entities such as libraries.
• Extend and enhance financing mechanisms for library facilities such as the New Markets Tax Credit.
We encourage the House to advance these provisions as a key step toward modernizing America’s library facilities and closing the digital divide.
