Got Coupon? Transition to Digital TV
By Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 2/15/2008
Residents of the United States have all of a year to adjust to a sea change in television broadcasting, and libraries have a key role to play. Analog broadcast television will become history on February 17, 2009, as the nation completes its transition to an all-digital system. Anyone whose TV isn't connected to cable, satellite, or other pay service needs either a new TV or a converter box.
In an effort to make sure no family will be left behind, the federal government is offering U.S. households up to two $40 coupons to help pay for such converter boxes, which should cost between $50 and $70. (Coupons will not be mailed until February 17, 2008, by which time the converters should be on store shelves; the coupons expire in 90 days.) For information, go to www.dtv2009.gov.
The American Library Association (ALA) has been working closely with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Digital Television Transition Coalition to educate and assist librarians. Some local libraries are already spreading the word: the Free Library of Philadelphia, as detailed at the ALA Midwinter Meeting, is partnering with WHYY public television to get information out.
