Computer Training
News, comments, resources, and more.
Don't be worried if you see less classes offered for the fall--we are simply in the mode of preparing for new and exciting things! In the next few months, we will be upgrading our staff computers to Microsoft Office 2007 which means the librarians and staff you rely on to help you with all your information needs at KPL need a little learning time! We look forward to eventually offering such software as Word and Excel in the 2007 version to patrons. The computer classes will change in the future to reflect this as well.
Also, in an ongoing effort to respond to patrons' needs, we adjust the training schedule. So, some months, you might see more of one class offered than another. For example, since we are now in the "back to school" mode, we have a class specifically designed to assist adults with their research needs. When the newness of school is over and projects are in full swing, we will open up more PowerPoint classes so students can create powerful presentations for their classes. In the colder months when going out for picnics, baseball games, and concerts to socialize isn't possible, we hope to offer classes on the world of social networking online (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
What kinds of classes interest you?
Book
Microsoft Office Word 2007 Step-by-Step
0735623023
Did you know that you can avoid or complement using the mouse on your computer by utilizing keyboard shortcuts? These handy little actions are when you combine the pressing of several keys on your keyboard similar to getting a capital letter on your name (Shift + the first letter of your name). Using the control (Ctrl, located on the same row as the space bar to either side) or the alternate (Alt, next to the space bar) keys, you can save time when doing things like printing (Ctrl + P) or selecting all the text in a document (Ctrl + A).
Keyboard shortcuts are for general computer use as well as for specific software use (such as making commands more efficient in Microsoft Word). Internet and email tasks are also included in the list of shortcuts.
This great little book also introduces how to use the keyboard to its maximum potential with or without shortcuts as well! Check it out today!
Book
Keyboard Shortcuts
0072255005
In addition to our many computer classes, the Kalamazoo Public Library also has a myriad of books that will be helpful to you in your quest for basic computer knowledge. One of my favorites is Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics. I like a couple things about the book. First, I enjoy the funny bobblehead looking images that accompany helpful sidebar tips. One such tip says "Tip: The cursor changes shape--to a double-ended arrow--when it's positioned over the edge of a window". Those types of tidbits of knowledge are spread throughout this great resource.
Second, the book is fabulous at one of the things I encourage most in the classes here at the library: knowing the lingo. Knowing what various computer terms are will vastly increase your confidence and ability to "speak" computers with people. For example, in the world of the computer mouse, there are commands such as right-clicking, hovering, dragging and dropping, and double-clicking. Do you know what each command will do and when to use each command? Little things like that make a world of difference in feeling knowledgeable about computers.
So, come on down for a class, and while you're here, check out our great section on computers!
Book
Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics
9780789736734
Did you know that there are computer programs out there that can guess or "crack" your passwords for your online accounts? However, many times it doesn't even require a sophisticated program to crack your code. You make it easy for a hacker to learn your password because you pick things that are easy to remember: your street name, your pet's name, your birthday. Once someone purports to know that, they simply have to assume you've used that password for more accounts. (You haven't, have you?)
While it is a little extra work to maintain strong password integrity, it is essential to preventing your identity from being stolen. So, no common information that someone could guess. That's easy enough. Now, nothing in the dictionary. What?! Yes, it is true. Nothing that a simple dictionary matching program could find. So what is left?
- Create words that are acronyms for something you like to do. For example, instead of "hoops", you could use "iltpbb" which stands for "I like to play basketball".
- To mix it up even more and ensure even more security, combine caps with lower case: IlTpBB
- One more step to up the security ante: combine letters with numbers and/or characters: 1!2pBb (notice the one and the exclamation mark look like an I and a lowercase L)
So, you have to be smarter than the average bear (as Yogi would say). The password strategies in your pic-i-nic basket have to outsmart the ranger--every time.
Book
Stopping identity theft : 10 easy steps to security
9781413309560
Today, the Kalamazoo Gazette ran a "savvy citizen" article about how the Kalamazoo Public Library is a GREAT place to find information for those seeking employment. Well, in case you missed that, let me tell you that we are the place to enhance your job seeking skills. We can help you with ways to look for a job, spice up your resume, or overcome interview fears (preparation is the key!).
We will be running our three-part series of Job Skills Workshops throughout the coming months, so be sure to check out the schedule for updated registration information.
If you can't make it to a class, consider our
- Career and Employment Topic Guide--this offers a wide variety of essential job seeking information from helpful websites to databases such as our Learning Express Library, specifically designed for job search and workplace skills.
- Resume, Cover Letter, and Interview Books--the library offers a huge selection of books that can help you formulate a resume (or cover letter), practice for the big interview, or help you focus on what skills come naturally for you.
Best of luck with your job search! Make searching for a job your current full time job, be resourceful, and keep a positive attitude!
Book
Resumes for the rest of us
9781564149831
One of the basic things about learning how to use a computer is knowing how it works. While learning things like the Internet, email, blogging, and using your digital camera are important in today's technological world, one of the greatest things you can learn is HOW your machine thinks, operates, and functions. (NOTE: each of the links above takes you to the appropriate page for one of our great computer classes!)
This book is brand new to KPL and isn't even quite on the shelf, so reserve your copy today by clicking on the image of the book and clicking "hold" on the left side of the screen. Have your library card number ready along with your PIN number (the last four digits of the phone number on file), and you'll be on your way to reserving this book and learning about your computer!
Book
How Computers Work
0789736136
Many people call the library looking for help with keyboarding--formerly known as typing. The keyboard of a computer is one of several input devices that allow the computer to receive information. Without it, using a computer would be greatly limited. There is nothing truly intuitive about using a keyboard either. The letters are in a non-sensical order. The key to push that gets you a capital letter on your name says "shift" rather that "upper case". So, what is one to do?
We offer a Mouse and Keyboard Workshop that helps you understand the layout of the keyboard as well as knowledge about another input device: the mouse. In this class, there are sample tutorials and activities you can do in class as well as at home with an Internet connection. If you don't happen to have the Internet at home, just come back into any of our libraries and use our public computers to practice!
We also have a few books on typing and keyboarding that might interest you. They can be found in the non-fiction collection with the number 652.3.
The best way to make your typing skills increase? PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! Give yourself a purpose for practicing. Pick up books, newspapers, and magazines and just type what you see. Every day you will get a little bit better!
Book
KAZ (keyboarding A-Z) : touch-typing quick and easy
1418841080