§40. Accessible electronic information services

1.  Definitions.  As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

A. "Accessible electronic information service" means news and other information, including but not limited to newspapers, provided to eligible individuals from a multistate service center using high-speed computers and telecommunications technology for interstate acquisition of content and rapid distribution in a form appropriate for use by such individuals.   [PL 2005, c. 651, §1 (NEW).]

B. "Eligible individuals" means blind, visually impaired or disabled individuals who are eligible for library loan services through the Library of Congress and the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped pursuant to 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 701.10(b).   [PL 2005, c. 651, §1 (NEW).]

C. "Qualified entity" means an agency, instrumentality or political subdivision of the State or a nonprofit organization that:

(1) Provides interstate access for eligible individuals to read daily newspapers through producing audio or Braille editions by computer;

(2) Obtains electronic news text either over the Internet or through direct transfer arrangements made with participating news organizations; and

(3) Provides a means of program administration and reader registration on the Internet.   [PL 2005, c. 651, §1 (NEW).]

[PL 2005, c. 651, §1 (NEW).]

2.  Provision of service.  The State Librarian may enter into an agreement with a qualified entity to provide an accessible electronic information service for eligible individuals. If an agreement is entered into, the State Librarian may make use of federal and other funds available for this purpose.

[PL 2005, c. 651, §1 (NEW).]

3.  Telecommunications education access fund.  The State Librarian or the Commissioner of Education may enter into contracts or order services on behalf of schools and libraries in connection with the telecommunications education access fund pursuant to Title 35-A, section 7104-B. The State Librarian or the Commissioner of Education may take advantage of any discounts available pursuant to the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996.

[PL 2009, c. 274, §17 (NEW).]

SECTION HISTORY

PL 2005, c. 651, §1 (NEW). PL 2009, c. 274, §17 (AMD).