Montana State Reference Network Update
Hello Montana State Reference Network pilot users,
Growing and sustaining the Montana State Reference Network
The Montana State Library is pleased to announce that the Montana State Reference Network (MTSRN) will soon transition to a user supported Real Time Network (RTN). After several years of successful growth and operation as a pilot, the 2023 Montana Legislature authorized the State Library to administer a Real Time Network and to collect fees to fund its operation.
Moving from pilot to production
Except in certain circumstances described in administrative rules, effective July 1, 2024 MTSRN users will pay a $1500 annual subscription fee, per login, to use the network. Fees maintain the operation of the MTSRN, including the cost for the network and support staff. According to administrative rules, the subscription rate will be reviewed regularly, and we will seek input from existing and potential users, to ensure that the fees remain affordable while also covering the costs without collecting more than necessary to operate the network.
On or around April 1, the Montana State Library will offer a payment portal for users to purchase MTSRN logins. Existing users must subscribe by July 1 to continue using the service.
Subscribe early
Users who subscribe to the MTSRN before June 1 will receive a one-time discount of $300. Pay only $1200 to use the network until July 1, 2025.
Support the RTN in other ways
Additional base stations are necessary to grow the RTN statewide. To reach this goal the Montana State Library will credit contributors who build or maintain a base station with a MTSRN login. The Montana State Library will provide more information about Contributing Organization Agreements before April 1.
Make use of the MTSRN for educational use
The Montana State Library will provide more information about Educational Use Agreements before April 1 as well.
Contact the Montana State Library for more information
Please feel free to contact the MTSRN operator, Kazi Arifuzzaman, via email at: karifuzzaman@mt.gov or call him at 406.444.0240.
Information about the MTSRN is available online at: Montana State Reference Network (mt.gov)
RTN Administrative Rules
The administrative rules that apply to the RTN are available online through the Secretary of State’s Office.
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