Rural and Tribal Broadband Internet Connectivity

A lunchtime panel discussion on the Tribal Connect Act of 2017 (S.2205) highlighting the importance of broadband connectivity to tribal and rural communities. This discussion will focus on how broadband connectivity and telecommunications infrastructure in rural and tribal regions helps to enhance education, provide economic opportunity, and close the digital divide. The panel will explore the role that libraries play as community institutions that facilitate digital inclusion.

Introductions by Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and American Library Association President Jim Neal.

A panel discussion moderated by ALA Spectrum Scholar Elayne Silversmith, the branch librarian for the Vine Deloria, Jr. Library located in the National Museum of the American Indian’s Cultural Resources Center.

• Cynthia Aguilar, a librarian with Santo Domingo Pueblo in New Mexico
• Hannah Buckland, director of Library Services at Leech Lake Tribal College in Minnesota
• Irene Flannery, director of AMERIND Critical Infrastructure
• Kelly Wismer Public Relations Manager at NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association

Lunch will be provided.