
Hello Montana State Reference Network pilot users,
Growing and sustaining the Montana State Reference Network
After several years of successful growth and operation as a pilot project, the 2023 Montana Legislature authorized the State Library to administer a Real Time Network (RTN).
This means the Montana State Reference Network (MTSRN) will soon transition to a user-supported RTN with subscription fees to fund its operation.
Moving from pilot to production
Effective July 1, 2024, MTSRN users will pay a $1,500 annual subscription fee, per login, to use the network. (See administrative rules for exceptions).
Existing users must subscribe by July 1, 2024, to continue using the MTSRN.
Fees will help maintain the operation of the MTSRN, including the cost for the network and support staff. The subscription rate will be reviewed regularly with input from existing and potential users to ensure fees remain affordable while offsetting the costs of operating the network.
Subscribe Now and Save
Users who subscribe to the MTSRN before June 1, 2024, will receive a one-time discount of $300 and pay $1,200 to use the network until July 1, 2025.
Watch for More to Come in April
- Payment portal will open for users to purchase MTSRN logins.
- Information on Educational Use Agreements.
- Benefits for helping grow the RTN statewide through Contributing Organization Agreements for building or maintaining a base station with an MTSRN login.
Contact the Montana State Library for more Information
Visit Montana State Reference Network (mt.gov) or contact the MTSRN operator, Kazi Arifuzzaman at karifuzzaman@mt.gov or 406.444.0240
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