Earlier this month, Google and the American Library Association (ALA) announced that Herndon Fortnightly Library would be one of three sites in Virginia to host free workshops aimed at creating economic opportunities through improving digital skills. These workshops will take place March 6, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the branch located at 768 Center Street in the Town of Herndon.

“We’re proud to be part of this workforce development initiative between Google and the American Library Association,” said Fairfax County Public Library Director Jessica Hudson. “It’s a valuable opportunity for job seekers, small business owners and community members to enhance their digital literacy skills with a day of hands-on workshops at our Herndon Fortnightly branch.”

The initiative, called Grow with Google, recognizes the critical role that libraries play in supporting workforce development. They are kicking off the effort with free, one-day events hosted at libraries, where Grow with Google staff will lead workshops for job seekers and small business owners, as well as library staff members.

“Virginia is a center for innovation, entrepreneurship and manufacturing. By bringing the ‘Grow with Google’ tour to the state, we are making a commitment to help develop a skilled workforce that can meet the needs of Virginia’s growing economy,” said Erica Swanson, Google’s Head of Community Engagement.

There will be four different in-person workshops held:

• Digital Skills for Your Community: Learn about free tools and resources that you can use to assist job seekers in conducting an online job search and learning new digital skills, and help small businesses learn how to reach customers online. This workshop includes curriculum that you can tailor for your own community needs. Note: This session is for library, education and nonprofit professionals only.
• Reach Customers Online with Google: Anyone who wants to learn new marketing skills or reach potential customers online will learn about search engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), content marketing, and social media marketing. The result? A strategy that can get your organization, business or event in from of your target audience.
• Get Found on Google Search and Maps: Explore Google My Business, a free tool for local businesses who want to connect with customers on Google Search and Maps. Get hands-on help creating or updating your listing, and learn how to make a free website.
• Get Started with Email, Spreadsheets and Presentations: Do your best work from wherever you are. In this interactive workshop for beginners, anyone interested in learning more about Gmail, spreadsheets, and presentations will gain first-hand experience using these products and learn helpful tips on how to collaborate and stay organized.

You must register in advance at g.co/GrowVirginia. Space will be limited.