FAQ: Microsoft Program Changes for Libraries

The upcoming changes to Microsoft's nonprofit programs will have a unique impact on libraries. This page answers some of the most frequent questions that we've received. We've also included links to the archived video and slides for a webinar that outlines what's changing for libraries.

What's happening with the Microsoft for Nonprofits program?

Microsoft is updating its programs for nonprofits and libraries in order to streamline its offers — and to focus more intently on cloud solutions. In addition, the company is also unifying and modernizing its license distribution systems across all industries and sectors worldwide.

These changes will affect both the Microsoft offers available to TechSoup members, as well as how you will request and download Microsoft products.

For full details, see our Microsoft's program changes information page.

What do these changes mean for libraries?

Traditionally, libraries have been able to request donated Microsoft on-premises products through TechSoup for their public-access computers. Libraries will no longer be able to do this after December 29, 2021.

But TechSoup will soon offer academic licenses of Microsoft's products to libraries. This means that libraries will soon be able to request Microsoft products through TechSoup for all aspects of their operations — both internal and public-facing. There are no limits on the number of academic licenses that you will be able to request.

Libraries will also be able to request Microsoft cloud subscriptions through TechSoup at an academic discount.

Note: "On-premises" refers to the traditional approach to acquiring software: You pay once for a license and then download the software. You can then use that software in accordance with the license terms for as long as you want.

When will academic offers for libraries be available through TechSoup?

We expect to make these academic offers available sometime in January, 2022.

What products will my library be able to request?

You will be able to get the on-premises products you need for your public-access computers. You will also be able to request cloud licenses for academic institutions, such as Office 365 A1 (available as a donation), as well as many discounted Office 365 and Microsoft 365 academic licenses.

We'll share details about the exact products that you'll be able to request soon.

What about libraries with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit designation?

Microsoft makes no distinction between libraries with or without a 501(c)(3) designation. This means that all libraries are subject to the changes outlined in this FAQ.

Can library consortiums request Microsoft products through TechSoup?

Yes. Library consortiums should contact TechSoup's Major Markets Team. We can help streamline the process of requesting Microsoft products through TechSoup.

Are there any restrictions on how libraries use academic licenses?

Microsoft's academic licenses are appropriate to use for all your operational needs — both internal and public-facing. This means that you can use academic licenses for both your staff and public-access computers.

In addition, there are no limits on how many academic licenses your library can request, so you can get as many licenses as you need.

To request academic licenses through TechSoup, you must be a TechSoup member organization. In addition, libraries will need to have their eligibility confirmed with Microsoft before requests will be processed. To learn more, read this Microsoft help article.

How about cloud subscriptions? Can my library get those through TechSoup as well?

Yes. TechSoup will offer academic discounts on Microsoft cloud subscriptions, including Office 365 and Microsoft 365. Subscription options may differ slightly from what are available to 501(c)(3) organizations.

How will these changes impact my existing licenses or cloud subscriptions?

These changes do not impact your existing licenses or Microsoft cloud subscriptions.

We're concerned about patron privacy. Does Microsoft collect usage data on users?

Microsoft collects some aggregate data on usage of its services, but it does not collect information on specific users.

My question wasn't answered here. Who can I contact?

If you have additional questions, These resources may help.

If you still have questions about the Microsoft program changes, contact reachus@techsoup.org.