Cochise County libraries have introduced Northstar Digital Literacy, a free online learning program for county residents. The service is accessible through public libraries and aims to address the growing need for digital skills as more activities shift online.
Northstar Digital Literacy offers training in three main areas: Essential Computer Skills, Essential Software Skills, and Using Technology in Daily Life. Topics include basic computer use, internet basics, email, Microsoft Office programs, Google Docs, social media, information literacy, career search skills, telehealth access, and understanding digital footprints. Learners can select any topics of interest and repeat lessons or assessments as needed. Both self-guided lessons online and in-library support are available.
Some participating libraries also help users earn Northstar Digital Literacy Certificates. These certificates may be valuable for job seekers looking to demonstrate their digital skills.
The service is available at libraries in Benson, Bisbee, Bowie, Douglas, Elfrida, Huachuca City, Portal, Sunizona, Sunsites, Tombstone, and Willcox. Residents of Sierra Vista can join by signing up with any participating library either online or in person.
“Northstar Digital Literacy is a free online learning service offered to all Cochise County residents through our public libraries. As work, school and daily tasks shift to online platforms, are you falling behind without the skills needed to navigate the digital world? Our libraries are committed to providing online education and opportunities to bridge the digital divide by providing access to workforce development, government and financial services, healthcare, lifelong learning, entertainment and social activities,” according to library staff.
This initiative is supported by the Arizona State Library with funding from the federal Library Services and Technology Act via the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Library cards are required for access. Residents can obtain a full-access card—which requires photo identification and proof of address—for borrowing physical items as well as using ebooks and other resources. Those needing only digital resources may apply for an E-Resource card; this can later be upgraded to full access if needed.
Residents who wish to apply over the phone can contact the Library District at 520-432-8937 during weekday business hours.
The launch comes amid concerns about educational achievement in Cochise County schools. In recent years a majority of students have struggled with core subjects: 70% of students in grades 3 through 8 failed mathematics on the 2022-23 AASA exam (https://www.azed.gov/), while 62.4% did not pass English on that same assessment (https://www.azed.gov/). Among high schoolers taking standardized tests in 2022-23, 76% failed mathematics (https://www.azed.gov/) and 65% failed English (https://www.azed.gov/). More recently for the 2023-24 school year ACT exam cycle in Cochise County schools only 27% of high schoolers passed mathematics (https://www.azed.gov/) while just under a third—28.5%—of younger students passed math on AASA tests (https://www.azed.gov/).
For more information about Northstar Digital Literacy or how to get started visit www.cochiselibrary.org or inquire at your local library.
