Albert L. Scott Library hosts technology classes

Published 12:17 pm Thursday, January 5, 2017

The Albert L. Scott Library is offering several technology classes and workshops during the months of January and February. All computer classes are scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“They’re pretty much just basic computer classes. They’re for people who are trying to learn basic computer skills.” said Reference Librarian and class instructor Candice Murdock.

According to Murdock, computer classes are only regularly offered at certain times during the year, and are not held during the summer or in December.

The Computer Basics class was held on Wednesday, Jan. 4. The class served as a way to familiarize people with computers and their basic functions. At the class, library patrons learned about hardware, software, operating systems, creating and saving files and different types of computers.

On Wednesday, Jan. 11, community members have the opportunity to learn about Microsoft Word 2013. Everything from creating a basic Word document to formatting and editing will be covered by this course.

A beginner’s class on Microsoft Excel will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 18. Murdock will teach participants basic information about Excel, along with different icons and several functions.

Murdock said most classes will be held on Tuesdays, instead of Wednesdays, in February.

On Tuesday, Feb. 7, the classes will cover basic Internet usage and e-mail. Participants will learn how to access the Internet through a web browser and use Google as a search engine. Participants will set up a Google account and learn about Google Drive and cloud computing.

Introduction to PowerPoint will take place on Saturday, Feb. 11. Participants will learn how to create, edit and save a PowerPoint presentation. Murdock said this is the first class the library has held on a Saturday.

Publisher Basics will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 21. Murdock will teach the basics of Microsoft publishing software, and will go over the use of templates and how to arrange text, images, fonts and colors in the program.

According to Murdock, Introduction to PowerPoint and Publisher Basics are brand new classes. She hopes to expand the classes to include more topics in the future.

“I’m going to see how [the new classes] go, and see if I want to add them into the regular rotation,” Murdock said. “I’m interested in doing a photo editing class in the future. I hope people continue to look at what classes are offered, because I’m hoping to add new things in the future.”

Murdock said participants are required to sign up for computer classes in advance by calling 664-6822 or by visiting the library’s circulation desk.

In addition to computer classes, the library will host a mobile device workshop on Thursday, Jan. 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Bob Fitzgerald, the owner of Personal Computer Consulting, will be available to help patrons learn more about how to use their laptops, smartphones, iPads, tablets, e-readers and any other mobile devices.