Libraries provide many free and accessible resources to their communities that promote lifelong learning and skill-building. The North Dakota State Library offers books, research databases, and programs for all ages—but that’s just the beginning. They also provide access to a free digital learning platform called Niche Academy. Here’s what you should know about Niche Academy and how the NDSL promotes free education.

What Is Niche Academy? 

Niche Academy is an online learning platform that provides readily available tutorials for libraries, municipalities, and other organizations. For libraries specifically, Niche Academy can greatly benefit patrons and staff. Niche Academy's mission is to provide free education to the public, a value all libraries share. The platform was developed by library professionals for librarians. 

The North Dakota State Library has partnered with Niche Academy to create a collection of resources for ND residents. NDSL’s Niche Academy site doesn’t require patrons to log in, which is a unique feature that makes it easily accessible. 

Niche Academy courses are self-paced, and certain classes include a completion certificate. Some video courses are delivered in multiple parts, while others are standalone. NDSL staff members curate the courses available to their patrons through Niche Academy, allowing them to tailor the offerings to their community’s needs.

North Dakota State Library’s Niche Academy Resources

Computer and Media Literacy

The NDSL Niche Academy collection features several videos discussing basic computer skills and how to use social media effectively. Similarly, the platform includes a tab focusing on technology, including digital footprints, online safety, and live chat etiquette. Course titles include Information Technology and the Age of Fake News, Microsoft Word, and more. 

Career Skills

Not only does Niche Academy’s courses cover essential modern life skills, but it also supports patrons interested in enhancing their career skills. You’ll find an entire section devoted to customer service and resume writing. These types of courses help people improve their chances of acquiring entry-level, full-time jobs. For example, there’s a two-part course focused on phone etiquette and respectfully putting customers on hold. Their resume writing tools include a video titled “Tech Talk: Online Job Applications” to help patrons navigate digital job hunting.

 Research Tools

Libraries are always available for those interested in conducting free research using high-quality print and digital sources, including online databases like JSTOR. The North Dakota State Library’s Niche Academy also incorporates research into its platform with an entire course titled Research Essentials, showcasing a variety of challenges encountered by everyday researchers to make them easier to overcome. Topics include search techniques, citing sources, and statistics. 

Job Search Prep

Applying for a new job can be difficult, especially if it’s someone’s first time navigating an online career platform. Thankfully, the NDSL’s Niche Academy provides courses like LinkedIn - Social Networking for Job Seekers and Professionals. They also offer hiring practices for employers interested in finding the perfect candidate. Job seekers interested in learning selective skills, such as ladder safety or how to use an AED, can view the library’s courses to amplify their resume. 

Library Management

The North Dakota State Library doesn’t just offer Niche Academy to patrons—it also provides free courses for other libraries. These include entire folders on programming, advocacy, the North Dakota state government, and more. Local libraries in the state or even across the country can access this site without logging in or paying extra fees. Course titles include How to Influence Politicians for Library Funding, Creating Diverse Spaces, and Creating a Safe Environment for Kids. 

How to Use the NDSL’s Niche Academy 

Accessing Niche Academy courses is easy! Click the highlighted link to access the North Dakota State Library’s Niche Academy. This will bring you to a list of resources organized by category. You don’t need a login to access the library's videos. Navigate the platform based on personal interests and click on an appealing course. 

For example, selecting the How to Use the Library Catalog class will bring you to a page with a video file. Press “play” to watch the course and learn more about the video’s topic. Depending on the featured content, there may be a description of what you are about to watch and information about the speaker. All videos provide accessibility options such as closed captioning, transcripts, and volume adjustments. 

Visit Niche Academy through the North Dakota State Library today to access free resources, courses, and tutorials to build your career or support lifelong learning.

Everyone should have access to free educational tools. Right to Read ND is continually fighting against censorship in response to increasing limitations on library materials in North Dakota. Visit their website to learn more about their advocacy efforts.