Digital Empowerement

Digital Empowerement

Updated October 2026

Access, Affordability, Adoption

We live in an increasingly digital world. Here in the heart of Silicon Valley, all of our residents should have access to the jobs, tools, and skills that our innovative region can provide.

Learn more about our SJ Access initiative, including free Wi-Fi, classes, and digital inclusion spaces.

Results at a Glance

3,191

Programs

+14%

Year over Year Change

13,029

Attendance

+13%

Year over Year Change

4.08

Attendees
per Program

Figures represent combined statistics from San José Public Library from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

Overview

The San José Public Library (SJPL) leads citywide initiatives to close the digital divide by expanding access to digital skill-building, high-speed internet, and technology for all San José residents. From coding to job searches, robotics to social connection, digital empowerment is key for our City’s residents to learn, grow, and thrive in the modern economy. These efforts, as well as many upcoming projects and programs, will help San Jose fulfill its potential as the heart of Silicon Valley.

Hallmark Programs

Coding & Computer Science Programs

SJPL’s coding and computer science programs are designed to provide students in grades K-12 with free, high-quality STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) learning opportunities. These programs were formally launched as a city-wide initiative called Coding5K, which aimed to engage 5,000 San Jose students in coding classes at SJPL by the year 2020. After exceeding this initial goal, SJPL’s offerings have continued to expand and evolve with community needs and interests.

578

Programs

5,402

Attendance

Digital Literacy & Skill Building Classes

With SJPL's digital literacy and skill building classes, community members deepen their understanding of basic digital literacy skills to safely and effective access digital tools.

Programs are offered in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Programs are also hosted in groups virtually, in person, and as one-on-one sessions.

2,481

Programs

5,952

Attendance

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Training & Events

The pace of technological change, particularly the rapid expansion of AI into employment, healthcare, education, and civic life, is creating a new dimension of potential inequity. SJPL's digital empowerment programs directly address barriers to access and leverage partnerships and volunteers to develop high-quality programming centered on AI that is free of charge for all residents.

63

Programs

876

Attendance