Subd. 1. Eligibility.

1. (a) A regional public library system may apply for regional library telecommunications aid. The aid must be used for data and video access costs and other related costs to improve or maintain electronic access and connect the library system with the state information infrastructure administered by the department of administration under section 16B.465. Priority shall be given to public libraries that have not received access. To be eligible, a regional public library system must be officially designated by the commissioner of children, families, and learning as a regional public library system as defined in section 134.34, subdivision 3, and each of its participating cities and counties must meet local support levels defined in section 134.34, subdivision 1. A public library building that receives aid under this section must be open a minimum of 20 hours per week.
2. (b) Aid received under this section may not be used to substitute for any existing local funds allocated to provide electronic access, equipment for library staff or the public, or local funds dedicated to other library operations.

3. (c) An application for regional library telecommunications aid must, at a minimum, contain information to document the following:

   1. (1) the connections are adequate and employ an open network architecture that will ensure interconnectivity and interoperability with school districts, post-secondary education, or other governmental agencies;
   2. (2) that the connection is established through the most cost-effective means and that the regional library has explored and coordinated connections through school districts, post-secondary education, or other governmental agencies;
   3. (3) that the regional library system has filed an e-rate application; and

   4. (4) other information, as determined by the commissioner of children, families, and learning, to ensure that connections are coordinated, efficient, and cost-effective, take advantage of discounts, and meet applicable state standards.

      The library system may include costs associated with cooperative arrangements with post-secondary institutions, school districts, and other governmental agencies.

Subd. 2. Award of funds.

The commissioner of children, families, and learning shall develop an application and a reporting form and procedures for regional library telecommunications aid. Aid shall be based on actual costs of connections and funds available for this purpose. The commissioner shall make payments directly to the regional public library system.

Subd. 3. Expiration.

This section expires on July 1, 2003.