San Diego Library Partners with Google to Offer Free Digital Skills Training
The San Diego Public Library (SDPL) has partnered with Google to offer free access to Grow with Google, an initiative providing career advancement courses. The program aims to build in-demand workforce skills for digital fields such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and IT support.
Municipal officials believe this partnership will help close the digital skills gap by removing a financial barrier and enabling residents to compete for good-paying jobs. Grow with Google has already helped over one million people train for higher-paying careers, with 70% of graduates reporting a positive career impact within six months of completion.
The program is available entirely free through SDPL, allowing San Diego County residents with an active library card to access the training on a first-come, first-served basis. Each license lasts six months, and if all slots are filled, a waitlist will open for interested learners. The partnership aligns with the Library's DiscoverU initiative, which offers no-cost classes and workshops covering college readiness, career preparation, and life skills.