Office of the Secretary
Federal Communications Commission
Washington D.C. 2OS54

Dear FCC:

We are pleased to respond to the Federal Communications Commission's request for comments in preparation for rule making for the Telecommunications Act of 1996.

We are especially concerned with an adequate definition Of "education" for the purposes of this act, and that libraries are empowered to fulfill their important role in the educational systems of our country.

The definition for eligibility needs to recognize clearly that public libraries have a vital educational role in our society. They are full-fledged players in the world of education, providing and preserving the public's access to information. Libraries serve citizens from their infancy to their demise; supporting then in their lifelong learning quest.

All basic services should be discounted to non-profit educational institutions supported by public and charitable funds. Since these institutions all serve to advance an informed citizenry, providing benefit to our society as a whole, it seems reasonable to expect that the cost for providing this discount be spread evenly over all users of the services.

Public libraries richly deserve preferential rates and access to advanced telecommunication services. It is in the public interest to enable public libraries as they work to narrow the gap between the information rich and the information poor.

We appreciate the Opportunity to comment. We believe our suggestions speak to the intent of the law's provisions and are the simplest and most equitable way to affect the goals of educational support.

Sincerely,

Ann Lesser,
Director

AL:jms

P.S. This document is being faxed in order to meet the April 8 deadline. An original and four copies follow by mail. A fifth copy is being directed by mail to the commission’s copy contractor, International Transcription Service.