MCFL Selected as One of Only 20 California Libraries to Pilot Free Mobile Learning Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MCFL Selected as One of Only 20 California Libraries to Pilot Free Mobile Learning Program

Marina, CA - September 22, 2026

Monterey County Free Libraries has been chosen as one of only 20 libraries statewide to pilot Cell-Ed's "Skills for Life" program, a free digital basic Adult English Language and workforce development initiative. In partnership with the California State Library and Pacific Library Partnership, this mobile learning platform provides free, micro-sized courses designed to fit into busy schedules.

The program delivers short, three-minute lessons that require no smartphone or Wi-Fi. Adult learners can access the "bite-sized" curriculum via a standard phone call, WhatsApp, or a smartphone app. To ensure student success, the platform features a live coach available 24/7 for continuous support.

Skills for Life focuses on essential upskilling across four key areas:

• Language & Literacy Skills: English and Spanish acquisition (listening, speaking, reading, writing), alongside parenting education programs like Building Future Readers to support early childhood reading.
• Digital Skills: Foundational tech training ranging from basic computer usage to navigating online banking, digital health portals, and social media safety.
• Work & Business Skills: Job search navigation, professional communication, and specialized pathways for street vendors and micro-entrepreneurs covering money management, taxes, and cashless payments.
• Community & Civics: Targeted preparation for the U.S. Citizenship N-400 application and interview, alongside voting readiness modules.

By removing tech barriers, this pilot empowers residents to learn vital language, math, digital, and civic skills anytime, anywhere.

For more information on how to enroll, contact Literacy and Volunteer Program Manager Sarah Hoeffel at [email protected] or 831-883-7597.