Thanks to a new partnership between the San Diego Public Library (SDPL) and Google, San Diego County residents with an active SDPL library card can now apply for free access to Grow with Google, an initiative offering career advancement courses designed to build in-demand workforce skills.

“Our libraries have always been places where San Diegans can learn, grow and find new opportunities, and this partnership builds on that mission for today’s economy,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “By giving residents free access to career certificates and AI training, we’re removing a financial barrier and helping San Diegans build the skills they need to compete for good-paying jobs. I’m grateful to Google and our Public Library for bringing these resources directly to our communities.”

Google Career Certificates are industry-recognized credentials that equip participants with job-ready skills in digital fields, including cybersecurity, data analytics, IT support and more, while Google AI courses provide hands-on AI training from Google experts. To date, over one million people have used these programs to train for higher-paying jobs, with over 70% of graduates reporting a positive career impact within six months of completion.

While Grow with Google courses normally have costs associated with them, this partnership allows San Diegans access to the training entirely free through SDPL. Access is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with each license lasting six months. If all available slots are filled, a waitlist will open for interested learners. With this launch, SDPL joins over 9,000 community organizations partnering with Google to help close the digital skills gap.

"At Grow with Google, we want to make sure that the opportunities created by technology are available to everyone,” said Amanda Brophy, Senior Director of Grow with Google. “This partnership with the San Diego Public Library and Mayor Gloria is a direct, practical way to help San Diegans gain in-demand AI and digital skills to access high-growth career pathways at no cost. By learning at their own pace at City libraries, residents can build the skills they need to thrive.”

The Grow with Google program joins a host of other opportunities available through the Library’s DiscoverU, which offers no-cost classes and workshops to youth and emerging adults covering college readiness, career preparation and life skills.

“Digital skills are a necessity in the modern workplace, and as a result, may become barriers to many job seekers,” said Library Director Misty Jones. “SDPL is proud to partner with Google to remove these barriers for San Diegans. All County residents can now acquire these skills at City libraries for free, opening the door to life-changing opportunities.”

To qualify for a Grow with Google scholarship, enrollees must be age 13 or older, reside in San Diego County and have an active SDPL library card. After successfully applying for the program, participants will receive a 6-month license and have the option to complete as many eligible courses and certificates as they wish. Courses are self-paced and offered 100% online through Coursera, with certificates typically taking 3-6 months to complete with 5-10 hours of study per week.

All SDPL locations offer computer and internet access with printing services, and Wi-Fi hotspots and laptops are available for checkout through the SDAccess4All program, while supplies last. SDPL’s Digital Navigator Program is also available to provide free, one-on-one assistance to help San Diegans obtain low-cost computers, sign up for affordable internet service, improve their digital skills and receive basic tech support.

To qualify for a Grow with Google scholarship, apply online at mysdpl.org/GrowWithGoogle.