E Rate
The E-Rate program was created out of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. It is intended to provide discounts on telecommunications services, Internet access, and internal connections to libraries and schools. The program is administered by the Schools and Libraries Division, which is a part of the Universal Service Administrative Company, on behalf of the Federal Communications Commission. The “E” stands for Education.
Through its Library Development and Networking Division, the Library of Virginia assists public libraries in understanding the E-Rate process, navigating the rules and regulations, preparing technology plans, and completing applications.
The Library of Virginia contracts with E-rate Central to provide consulting services for E-rate applicants. Mel Van Patten is the primary contact for questions regarding E-rate filing and application issues. E-Rate Central is pleased to continue its longstanding relationship with The Library of Virginia, partnering to provide Virginia libraries access to qualified E-rate Consulting Services since 2009. This coming year, you will receive the same high-quality comprehensive E-rate filing assistance as has been expected, with one difference. E-Rate Central now has an entire team assigned to work with Virginia libraries. Take a moment to read about the team and familiarize yourself with us. We will be working together to ensure a successful filing process. We look forward to working with you this year!
Mel Van Patten, CEMP: Mel is a Certified E-rate Management Professional, (CEMP) and the former President of the E-rate Management Professionals Association. Contact: mvanpatten@e-ratecentral.com or (516) 801-7828.
Jessica Olsen, CEMP: Jessica is a Certified E-rate Management Professional and a member of the E-rate Management Professionals Association. Contact: jolsen@e-ratecentral.com or (516) 801-7829.
Kerri Dillon, CEMP: Kerri has been an Account Manager with E-Rate Central since 2015. She is a Certified E-rate Management Professional and a member of the E-rate Management Professionals Association. Contact: kdillon@e-ratecentral.com or (516) 801-7808.
Barbara Rikard: Barbara recently joined the E-Rate Central team and brings years of experience in various industries, including banking, medical office practice management, legal and IT. Barbara has a strong passion for customer service and great organizational skills, and she looks forward to working with you. Contact: brikard@e-ratecentral.com or (516) 801-7826
Melissa Zaruba remains a valuable resource for the VA Libraries Team at E-Rate Central, although she is not working as a main E-rate contact this year.
For E-rate related questions
Please contact
Mel Van Patten
E-Rate Central
mvanpatten@e-ratecentral.com
(516) 801-7828
Cindy Church
State E Rate Coordinator
Library of Virginia
cindy.church@lva.virginia.gov
804.692.3773
