The periodic broadcasting of system information by an eNB is costly in terms of both spectrum and energy. Embodiments described herein more efficiently transmit system information and are particularly applicable to 5G deployment scenarios. In one embodiment, an LTE cell broadcasts system information to be used by a UE in initially connecting to a 5G cell, termed initial access system information. The 5G cell may then transmit system information upon request by a connected UE or when the system information is updated.