Northstar Digital Literacy

Northstar Digital Literacy

Build your computer confidence and master digital skills with on-demand, interactive digital training. The online, self-guided modules will lead you through practice exercises and strengthen your understanding of the material. Nationally recognized certifications prove to employers that you have the current skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce.

This is a free service offered by the Reading Public Library.

Learners will receive a Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate when they successfully complete an assessment in a proctored (monitored) setting at the Main Library, Northeast Branch, or Southeast Branch. Certificates provide an important credential for employment, as even entry-level jobs increasingly require basic computer skills. Certificates also demonstrate the ability to use social media and online information thoughtfully. 

Select lessons are offered in Latin American Spanish. See lessons for availability.

Available Lessons

Included are basic computer digital literacy standards and modules in three main areas:

Essential Computer Skills

  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Internet Basics
  • Using Email
  • Windows 10
  • Mac OS

Essential Software Skills

  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft PowerPoInt
  • Google Docs

Using Technology in Daily Life

  • Social Media
  • Information Literacy
  • Career Search Skills
  • Accessing Telehealth Appointments
  • Your Digital Footprint
  • Supporting K-12 Distance Learning

Get Started

Start building your digital literacy skills at home or any RPL branch. Northstar’s practice lessons will help you gain confidence and master skills. When you are ready, you can take an assessment to test your knowledge and demonstrate your abilities. If you already have an account or if you are practicing without a learner account, you are free to study at home or at any RPL branch.

Registering for a Northstar account allows you to track your progress with lessons and provides a record of completed certifications.

If you already have a Learner account, log in to get started right away.

Earn Digital Literacy Certifications

Attend a computer class that offers Northstar Assessment Proctoring at Main Library.

Learners will receive a Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate if they successfully complete the class and assessment with a score of 85% or above. Personalized assessment results provide relevant instruction.

Make an appointment with a proctor to take an assessment on your own. Call one of our proctoring locations to make an appointment to take an assessment for a certificate.

Main Library
100 S. Fifth St.
Reading, PA 19602
610-655-6355

Southeast Branch Library
1426 Perkiomen Ave.
Reading, PA 19602
610-655-6362