BRANCH CLOSURE UPDATES:

Gonzales Library is moving and will be closed from  November 25-beginning of February. Please join us on January 10, 2026 for the ribbon cutting for the new Gonzales Community Center at our new location at 630 Fifth Street!
Bookmobile services will be provided at Central Park. Please call the Soledad Branch at 831-386-6890 for assistance. 

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING’S BIRTHDAY OBSERVED: On Saturday, January 17, all Monterey County Free Libraries locations, including Seaside, will be closed in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s. Birthday.
The Administrative Office and Seaside Branch will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of the holiday. All locations will reopen on Tuesday, January 20.

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County of Monterey
Monterey County Free Libraries

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Career Online High School

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 Smart Horizons High Schools

Monterey County Free Libraries, in partnership with the California State Library and Smart Horizons, part of Cengage Learning, offer adults the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and career certificate online through Career Online High School (COHS). The library's program provides scholarships to qualified adult learners who are looking to earn a high school diploma and expand their career opportunities.

Apply for a Scholarship

COHS is open to eligible Monterey County residents. Applicants who successfully complete the online registration (survey below) and prerequisite course are invited to an individual interview. Successful applicants will be enrolled in the program. A limited number of scholarships are funded by the Foundation for Monterey County Free Libraries and the California State Library and are free to participating students.

To apply for a scholarship for COHS, you must:

  • Live in Monterey County
  • Be at least 19 years of age
  • Complete the registration survey
  • Have a Monterey County Library Card in good standing
  • Commit to 10 hours per week to study and complete coursework

Once enrolled in the program, COHS pairs each student with an online academic coach. The academic coach offers ongoing guidance, evaluates performance, and connects students with the resources needed to master the courses. There are no additional materials for students to purchase. Students are given up to 18 months to complete the program.

If selected for the program, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Take a 2-week prerequisite course. Upon completion, candidates can enroll in the full program.
  • Take classes online – the program is designed with the flexibility to access classwork anytime.
  • Earn an accredited high school diploma while preparing for a career in one of 8 high-demand, high-growth fields.
  • Gain career readiness with a career portfolio including a resume, a cover letter, and preparation for a job

For more information, check out Career Online High School’s FAQs here

ca.careeronlinehs.org/faq

If you have any questions, call 831-883-7597 or email HoeffelS@countyofmonterey.gov today!