Update on 486 Information for Libraries
Message Posted August 9, 2002
The SLD has recently posted instructions for libraries on filing 486 forms on their web site www.sl.universalservice.org . As you may be aware, a recent court ruling overturned the requirement for libraries to "filter" Internet content as a requirement for E-Rate funding.
Libraries receiving E-rate discounts are still required to have an Internet safety policy that addresses:
(1) access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web,
(2) the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications,
(3) unauthorized access, including hacking, and other unlawful activities by minors online,
(4) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors, and
(5) measures designed to restrict minors' access to materials harmful to minors.
Libraries should use the current Form 486 (dated July 2001) or the current Form 479 (dated July 2001) until revised versions of the form are approved.
By checking Item 11a on the current Form 486, libraries are certifying that they have an Internet safety policy as described above, but are not certifying having a content filtering device in place because they are not required to filter Internet access. The SLD will not raise issues at a later date about the meaning and intent of this certification as it relates to a technology protection measure (filter).
Please remember that this ruling only affects libraries. Schools are still required to have both an Internet Safety Policy and content filtering device in place for E-Rate funding.
Also all 486 applications should be submitted within 120 days of the Service Start date or the funding commitment may be adjusted.
For additional information, please visit the School and Libraries Web Site at www.sl.universalservice.org.
Thanks!
Geoff Craven
Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit on behalf of
Julie Tritt Schell
Office of Educational Technology
Pennsylvania Department of Education
570-523-1155 Ext 2144
gcraven@csiu.org
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