The Brainerd Public Library is offering a variety of free computer classes to area residents.
Classes for those who are new to computers, haven’t used them for a while, are a little unsure and uncomfortable, or need a refresher will be taught using computers equipped with Windows 10 and Microsoft Office 2013, unless otherwise noted. Class size is limited to nine students and those interested can register by calling 218-829-5574.
- Computer Basics part 2 will be taught 2:30-4:30 p.m. March 26. Students who have attended Computer Basics, or who feel comfortable with using a computer mouse to click and scroll, will learn about kinds of computers and devices as well as basic file types and how to identify them. Students will also be introduced to some of the most popular websites, including Facebook, eBay, Pinterest, YouTube and more.
- A class titled “Facebook for Grown-ups” will be 1-3 p.m. March 31. Students will learn what Facebook is good for and how to sign up if they don’t have an account yet. They will also learn the basics of how to post, comment and protect their privacy. Students must come to class with a Facebook login or a valid personal email address and password and know how to use a mouse and keyboard.
- A class introducing Windows 10 will be 2:30-4:30 p.m. April 22. Students will see the changes from earlier versions to the new Windows 10, including new menus, settings, login options and more. Attendees must have the ability to use a mouse and keyboard, and be familiar with a previous version of Windows.
- An intermediate iPad class will be offered 1-3 p.m. April 28. Take the next step with the iPad, including an overview of favorite apps, working with iCloud storage and using the built-in apps to organize life. Basic familiarity with the iPad required. Students may bring their own devices, but iPads will also be available for all students to use.
- A class titled “Saving Digital ‘Stuff’ part 1: Drive, Disk, or Cloud?” will be 2:30-4:30 p.m. April 30. Information of all types is increasingly stored on personal computers and devices and deciding what to save is only part of the challenge. And just what is “the cloud”? The class will explore options for preserving digital files of all kinds. Basic familiarity with computers is required.
Classes are taught by Laurel Hall, public services library assistant at the Brainerd Public Library. Hall has been helping library patrons with computer and technology questions since 2009, and teaching classes for five years.
The library is also offering a new free class to area residents who would like to enhance their spreadsheet skills on Microsoft Excel. This one-session class will be 10-11:30 a.m. March 28. Students will learn more about tools on the ribbon, create a basic household budget and format a project for printing. Students must have taken Introduction to Microsoft Excel or have some basic spreadsheet knowledge prior to taking this class. The class is taught by library volunteer John Stubbs, a financial analyst with Grand Casino for more than 22 years.
Students are provided computers equipped with Windows 10 and Microsoft Office 2013 for the class. Class size is limited to eight students and those interested can register by calling 218-829-5574.
The technology used in these classes was made possible by grants from the Otto Bremer Trust.
