Technology

Minneapolis Groups Launch Free Digital Literacy Programs at Community Sites

City programs and local groups provide testing, courses, labs and mentoring to support internet use and online safety for residents.

By Minneapolis Tech Desk · Published July 18, 2026

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Minneapolis Groups Launch Free Digital Literacy Programs at Community Sites — Photo: goodrob13 / flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Minneapolis residents access free digital literacy resources through programs run by the City of Minneapolis, Literacy Minnesota, Hennepin County Library and other local organizations.

City and Library Resources

The City of Minneapolis offers Northstar digital skills testing, DigitalLearn online courses and SPNN community media resources. Hennepin County Library branches run free weekly Drop-In Tech Help sessions with volunteer tutors. Library cardholders receive 24/7 access to LinkedIn Learning, which includes over 16,000 professional courses in areas such as Python and data science.

Community Labs and Mentorship

Literacy Minnesota runs the Northstar digital literacy program, which supplies classroom curriculum and self-directed learning options. Digital Navigators from the program mentor individuals and help with low-cost internet access. One location is the Midway lab at 627 W Broadway Ave, which operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays. SPNN maintains a curated map of open computer labs, community technology centers and youth technology opportunities across the Twin Cities.

Specialized Training for Youth and Underserved Groups

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center at Minneapolis Central Library gives free mentor-led access to professional creative tools for youth ages 13 to 18. Minnesota Tech Resources operates free coding, robotics and app development labs for underserved communities. Free Geek Twin Cities sells low-cost refurbished computers. COPAL provides free basic computer skills courses in English and Spanish. The Lyndale Neighborhood Association offers free digital literacy classes with materials available in English, Spanish, Somali and Arabic. Internet access options begin at $14.95 per month, and the city has over 100 free wireless hotspots.

These resources help residents use the internet and stay safe online through testing, courses, labs and one-on-one support at established local sites. Residents can check the SPNN map or contact the listed organizations for current schedules and eligibility details at the specific locations.

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