NCW Libraries is now offering free online access to the Washington State Certification Portal.
This portal, made available through the Washington State Library, gives library cardholders free access to professional certifications and workforce learning tools. Through the portal, you can learn, practice and certify in high-demand digital and technical skills, from Microsoft Office and digital literacy to advance IT and cybersecurity.
“Access to technology is only part of the equation — what truly creates opportunity is access to skills and credentials. Our role as a library is to reduce barriers, and professional certifications can cost hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars, placing them out of reach for many people. By offering Cert Portal, we’re removing that cost barrier and putting high-quality, career-focused learning directly into the hands of our community. With a library card, anyone can build in-demand skills and earn industry-recognized certifications at no cost, creating a powerful pathway toward workforce readiness and economic mobility across our communities,” said Ash Kunz, Digital Literacy and Learning Manager for NCW Libraries.
What Can You Learn?
Through Cert Portal, you can explore training and certification preparation in areas such as:
- CompTIA (IT Fundamentals, A+, Network+, Security+, and more)
- Intuit/Quickbooks
- Microsoft Office Specialist – 2019
- Microsoft Office Specialist – 365
- IT Specialist
- Microsoft Certified Fundamentals (MCF)
- Cisco Certified Support Techinician (CCST)
These certifications are recognized by employers and can help strengthen your resume, build confidence, and open doors to new opportunities.
How It Works
- Log in with your library card.
- Choose a certification pathway or skill area – request the code for the learning course through the portal.
- Complete lessons at your own pace.
- Request the code through the portal for practice exams.
- When you’re ready – and have scored an 80% or higher on practice exams – schedule your certification exam through the portal.
All coursework and practice materials are included with your library card — representing thousands of dollars’ worth of training at no cost to you!
Certification exams are proctored by a third-party testing service, not by library staff. The proctor monitors the exam session online to ensure testing standards are met.
What You’ll Need
Because exams are proctored online, you will need:
- A computer
- A reliable internet connection
- A webcam
- A quiet, private testing space
Many users choose to complete exams on their own computer. Some library branches offer reservable meeting or teleconferencing rooms that may be suitable for testing. Contact your local branch to learn more about available spaces.
Why This Matters
Technology skills are essential in today’s workforce. Whether you’re entering the job market, changing careers, returning to work, or simply building confidence with digital tools, Cert Portal helps you move from learning to credentialing — and from opportunity to action.
Your library card is more than a way to check out books. It’s your key to professional growth, career advancement, and lifelong learning.
Ready to get started? Visit our website or stop by your local branch to learn more.
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