Library stops distributing state-provided COVID tests; board reviews internet filters, CIPA compliance and funding risks

Library staff informed the Davis County Library Board that the state has ended distribution of free COVID tests to libraries and that the system has distributed 63,472 tests since November 2022.

“Since we started November of 2022 ... we've distributed 63,472 tests,” Library Director Josh Johnson said, noting the program lasted far longer than originally anticipated. Staff explained distribution was offered with state support and that, with the state’s supply ending, staff expect the library will cease providing tests.

At the same time, staff led an extended discussion about internet policies, filters for minors, and federal and state funding programs that support library internet service. Johnson explained that the library’s internet policies are tied to the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and to E-rate subsidies, and he reminded the board that the state requires a three‑year review of certain policies to maintain state funding.

Staff discussed technical limits and operational practice: filters are imperfect; staff perform periodic public‑space checks and are trained to intervene when users encounter content that threatens the safety or comfort of other patrons. Information‑systems staff manage bandwidth and address shortages such as lack of IP addresses during peak periods; staff said throttling typically self-limits usage, but addressing recurring capacity constraints may require purchasing additional IP addresses.

Johnson also reviewed funding exposure: the library receives federal pass-through grants via the state library (about $50,000 noted for certain digital materials programs), participates in E‑rate through a memorandum with the state educational network (UEN), and relies on those mechanisms to reduce operating costs for internet access. He told the board that the Supreme Court is considering the legality of some aspects of E‑rate funding and that federal and state funding sources (including LSTA and Netlender grants) face uncertainty; staff and local officials have raised these concerns with congressional offices and the National Association of Counties.

Board members asked about staff training for sensitive situations (for example, minors accessed material, harassment or potential child‑exploitation incidents). Staff described training, desk procedures and brief written scripts that front-line employees use to redirect patrons or to escalate incidents to managers and, if necessary, law enforcement.

Johnson asked board members to review the internet and minors’ access policies ahead of a likely June or July policy action, because compliance affects funding eligibility. He said staff will circulate the policies and suggested questions in advance of the next meeting.