What is Broadband?

Broadband refers to high speed Internet or network connections, connecting a location to either the Internet or other locations. Under the Federal Communications Commissions' definition, "broadband" means 200 kb/s or faster in both directions. Many libraries in Michigan already have broadband connections. Broadband is available from a number of different technologies.

Why is broadband important for libraries?

Broadband services (regardless of the technology used to deliver them) are clearly the wave of the future. Library users are increasingly coming to expect high speed access to the Internet, online catalogs, and other library resources. The high speed connections also help entice users to come back to libraries, giving library staff the opportunity to make users aware of the multitude of services available to the public in virtually every library. In order to meet and exceed users' expectations, libraries should thoroughly investigate the broadband service options available.

How can I get broadband for my library?

The first step in getting broadband for your library is to determine what broadband service options are available in your area (please see our Commonly Asked Questions on Service Availability and Options for more information on how to determine which service options are available to you).

Financial support for broadband Internet connections is available from a variety of sources. Many libraries participate in the E-rate program, which can provide libraries with significant discounts on many broadband connections. In addition, the Library of Michigan is supporting the deployment of broadband services to libraries through its implementation of the Reed Act and LSTA. Links to all of these programs is available from our Grants to Support Your Technology page.

Where can I go to learn more about different broadband technologies?

There is a quick review of each of the major broadband technologies in our Commonly Asked Questions on Service Availability and Options. In addition, there is a wealth of information on the Internet, available from sites such as WebJunction and DSL Reports, on the various technology options available to libraries.

Libraries should also be able to get further information on locally available services from the appropriate service providers.

Do the computers in a library need to be networked in order to take advantage of broadband?

For multiple computers to share the same broadband connection, yes, the computers do need to be networked together. If only a single computer is to use the broadband connection, no network is necessary (although you may want to consider putting a firewall or other security hardware or software in place to protect the computer).

Is there more information about computer networking available?

A number of websites, including Small Net Builder, Practically Networked, and DSL Reports have guides to building basic networks (these sites are not endorsed by the Library of Michigan, but may be useful resources to library staff seeking information on the fundamentals of computer networks). If a library needs a more complicated network setup, it may be appropriate to consult a network engineer.