Free and affordable platforms for teaching digital skills and online learning
These platforms help libraries provide digital literacy training, professional development, and continuing education to patrons—from basic computer skills to advanced technical training!
| Need | Recommended Platform | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| True Beginners / Very Basic Skills | DigitalLearn.org, GCFLearnFree.org | Mouse/keyboard, email, internet basics |
| Skills Assessment & Training | Northstar Digital Literacy | Measuring skill levels with certificates |
| Professional Development | LinkedIn Learning, Gale Presents: Udemy | Job skills, software training, career growth |
| Continuing Education & Enrichment | Universal Class | Broad variety with certificates/CEUs |
| Test Prep & Career Readiness | LearningExpress Library | GED, licensing exams, job transitions |
| Live Tutoring & Job Support | Brainfuse HelpNow/JobNow | Guided assistance for learners |
Public Library Association Platform
Free self-paced online modules in English & Spanish covering mouse/keyboard, email, search engines, and online safety. Excellent for true beginners.
Cost: Free (optional branded site)
Free Online Tutorials
Free tutorials covering computer basics, Microsoft Office, Google tools, reading, math, and more. Perfect for self-paced learning at very basic levels.
Cost: Free
Skills Assessment & Training
Online assessments and tutorials covering basic computer/Internet skills, software (Word, Excel, Google Docs), and tech-in-daily-life topics. Libraries can issue certificates.
Cost: Varies by library
20,000+ On-Demand Video Courses
Library-friendly version of Udemy Business with thousands of courses in business, tech, design, and personal development. Strong for job skills and software training.
Cost: Library subscription
Professional & Technical Training
Large catalog of professional courses in software, business, and creativity. Formerly Lynda.com. Great for up-skilling and job-seeking patrons.
Cost: Library subscription
Free Microsoft Training
Free training for Microsoft products and technologies from basic to advanced. Good for tech-skills training paths and specific software learning.
Cost: Free
500+ Self-Paced Courses
Hundreds of self-paced online courses across professional/business, personal enrichment, and continuing education. Patrons can earn certificates and CEUs.
Cost: Library subscription
Test Prep & Career Skills
Interactive tutorials and practice tests for academic & licensing exams, job & career success skills, computer/internet basics. Good for GED/HSE prep and career transitions.
Cost: Library subscription
Language Learning Platform
Language-learning platform offered via libraries. Supports learning digital/online tools and languages, especially useful for immigrants accessing online services.
Cost: Library subscription
Live Tutoring & Job Support
Online tutoring, homework help, job-search support, test prep and skills development. Provides live or scheduled tutor support for patrons who need guided help.
Cost: Library subscription
Early Childhood Learning
Interactive books, games and activities for early learners. Builds digital literacy and comfort with devices from a young age. Available through many public libraries.
Cost: Library subscription
Many libraries are expanding digital inclusion with programs that go beyond online platforms: