Free LinkedIn Learning With Your Library Card (Yes, Really)

LinkedIn Learning normally costs $29.99 per month. That's almost $360 a year for access to professional courses on everything from Excel to project management to coding.

But here's something most people don't know: you can get it completely free with a library card.

Wait, Really?

Yes. Most public libraries in California offer free LinkedIn Learning access to cardholders. All you need is a library card — which is also free. You can often sign up for a library card online in about 5 minutes.

Once you have access, you get the same LinkedIn Learning that companies pay thousands of dollars to provide their employees:

• Over 16,000 courses taught by industry experts
• Business, technology, and creative skills
• Certificates of completion to add to your resume and LinkedIn profile
• Downloadable exercise files and resources
• Mobile app access for learning on the go

Central Valley Libraries With LinkedIn Learning

Here are the library systems in the 209 area code that offer free LinkedIn Learning access:

San Joaquin County

• Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library — Serves Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy, Ripon, Escalon, and all of San Joaquin County

Stanislaus County

• Stanislaus County Library — Serves Modesto, Turlock, Ceres, Patterson, Oakdale, Riverbank, Hughson, Newman, and Waterford

Merced County

• Merced County Library — Serves Merced, Los Banos, Atwater, Livingston, and surrounding areas

Calaveras County

• Calaveras County Library — Serves Angels Camp, San Andreas, Arnold, Valley Springs, and Copperopolis

How to Get Access

Step 1: Get a Library Card

If you don't have one, visit your local library or sign up online. You'll need:

• Proof of address (utility bill, ID, or mail)
• Photo ID

Many libraries now let you sign up entirely online and get a digital card instantly.

Step 2: Access LinkedIn Learning

Go to your library's website and look for "LinkedIn Learning" or "Lynda.com" (the old name) in their digital resources section. You'll log in with your library card number.

Step 3: Start Learning

Browse courses, create playlists, and earn certificates. Your progress syncs with your LinkedIn profile if you connect your accounts.

Best Courses for Job Seekers

Not sure where to start? Here are some popular courses that can help with your job search:

For Everyone

• Excel Essential Training
• Communication Foundations
• Time Management Fundamentals
• Writing a Resume
• Job Interview Tips

For Career Changers

• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides)
• Project Management Foundations
• Customer Service Foundations
• Data Analysis with Excel

For Tech-Curious

• Programming Foundations
• SQL Essential Training
• Learning Python
• Web Development Foundations

Add Certificates to Your Resume

When you complete a course, you get a certificate. You can:

• Add it directly to your LinkedIn profile
• Download a PDF to include with job applications
• List completed courses in the "Professional Development" section of your resume

This is especially valuable if you're trying to break into a new field or don't have a traditional degree. Completed courses show employers you're proactive about learning new skills.

Other Free Resources at Your Library

While you're at it, check what else your library offers. Many Central Valley libraries also provide:

• Free computer and internet access — Great if you're job searching
• Free printing — For resumes and cover letters
• Career counseling — Some libraries host job fairs and workshops
• Other learning platforms — Coursera, Udemy, or skill-specific databases

The Bottom Line

You have access to $360/year worth of professional training for free. All it takes is a library card. If you're job searching, trying to level up your skills, or thinking about a career change, this is one of the best-kept secrets in the Central Valley.

Get your library card. Start learning. Add those certificates to your resume.

Your future employer will never know you learned Excel for free at the Stockton Public Library.