OLYMPIA — The Washington State Library (WSL), part of the Office of the Secretary of State, launched the Washington State Certification Portal early last month. The new online platform gives library cardholders across the state free access to professional certifications and workforce learning tools and was made available Oct. 1, 2025.
The portal is available to cardholders from the Washington State Library, King County Library System, Tacoma Public Library, Spokane Public Library, Whatcom County Library System, Bellingham Public Library, and San Juan Island Library, with more libraries joining soon.
Through the portal, library users can learn, practice, and certify in high-demand digital and technical skills, from Microsoft Office and digital literacy to advanced IT and cybersecurity. Patrons log in with their library cards to explore thousands of dollars’ worth of self-paced courses, practice tests, and industry-recognized credentials at no cost to the user. Complete program resources can be found on the Washington State Library’s webpage.
The program will provide additional benefit to local libraries. By connecting their Integrated Library Systems (ILS) to the statewide portal—similar to how LinkedIn Learning is offered—they can expand their offerings without adding new staff responsibilities. WSL manages the technical side and automation, while participating libraries keep the community connection and receive usage data that reflects their patrons’ participation.
“This initiative is a win-win for libraries and residents alike,” said Washington State Librarian Sara Jones. “The Washington State Certification Portal removes cost and access barriers, giving every Washingtonian with a library card the chance to build job-ready skills and earn credentials that open doors.”
Funded by the Washington State Legislature and the federal Library Services and Technology Act, the new portal supports WSL’s work to strengthen digital equity, workforce readiness, and lifelong learning across Washington.
How to Get Started
- Visit the Washington State Certification Portal at wsl.infojinicloud.com
- Log in using your library card from a participating library. If your library is not yet participating, or if you don’t have a library card, you can get a library card from the Washington State Library.*
- Explore learning tools such as LinkedIn Learning, GMetrix, Northstar Digital Literacy, Cisco Networking Academy, and Microsoft Learn.
- Complete self-paced courses, practice exams, and request free exam vouchers for eligible certifications.
*Library staff, if your library is not yet offering access, please email Certify@sos.wa.gov
Source: Office of Secretary of State
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
