Idaho libraries seek ongoing state backing to implement federal digital-access grant

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee heard a presentation on the Idaho Commission for Libraries’ budget and grant activity, including implementation of the federal Digital Access for All Idahoans program and library reimbursement authorized under the Education Opportunity Resource Act.

The agency told the committee it has begun issuing competitive subgrants and expects to distribute most funds to local organizations for digital navigators, device distribution and digital-skills training; staff asked the committee to consider ongoing spending authority to match expected future notices of award from the federal program.

The Idaho Commission for Libraries provides planning and grants support to 850 libraries across Idaho. Brooke Dupree, a budget and policy analyst with the Legislative Services Office, told the committee the commission expects to increase its base to about $275,000 for Education Opportunity…