Computer classes at library

COEUR d’ALENE – Patrons can have their introduction to computers, learn to use e-mail and the Internet or find out how to use Microsoft Office products during workshops at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library.

Computer workshops at the library – 201 E. Harrison Ave. – are free, but seating for each session is limited. Most classes are conducted before regular library hours. Contact the library at 769-2315 or info@cdalibrary.org for a schedule of workshops.

Participants will need a library card to sign up. Coeur d’Alene library patrons can fill out an application at www.cdalibrary.org and bring a photo ID and proof of residence to the library to obtain a card. Applications can also be filled out by hand or at a catalog station at the Coeur d’Alene library.

Basic typing skills are helpful for all workshops. The currently offered workshops include:

“Introduction to Computers: An informative tour in the basics of computers. If you have never touched a computer before, or have worked with computers but have not felt very comfortable with them, this workshop is for you.

“Setting Up Free E-mail: Need e-mail? This can help. This workshop will guide you through the sign-up process for free e-mail, and provide a basic understanding of how to use this important communication tool.

“Surfing the Web: Searches on the Internet: If you need help finding information on the Internet, this workshop will give you the skills you need to be a smart surfer. We’ll give you a basic understanding of how to search the Internet using search engines, such as Google, Hotbot, and Yahoo!.

“Basics in Word – Word Processing: This workshop gives patrons a basic understanding of how to create, edit and format documents in a word-processing program. A basic knowledge of computers is necessary.

“Intermediate Word – Word Processing: This workshop goes beyond the basics of word processing, exploring mail-merge techniques and page-layout tools that will enhance the effectiveness of your writing. A basic understanding of Microsoft Word is necessary.

“Basics in Excel – Spreadsheets: Have long lists of numbers or information that need taming or calculating? A spreadsheet can help. This class will help you explore and understand the parts of the spreadsheet, basic formulas, basic formatting, and editing.

“Intermediate Excel – Spreadsheets: Spreadsheets do much more than crunch numbers. Join us to learn about Excel’s database functionality, creating charts and graphs, and creating more effective formulas on the run.

“Basics in Publisher – Desktop Publishing: Have a quick project, such as creating a sign or business card? Need to whip up a quick brochure? You might want to create your project in Publisher. Microsoft Publisher is a desktop publishing program which makes creating signs, cards, banners, brochures, business cards, and other types of documents a quick task, not a chore.

“Basics in PowerPoint – Presentations: If you have information that needs to be communicated effectively in a staff meeting, to a class, or just need information on display, consider using PowerPoint. Our workshop will provide the basic skills to begin creating visual presentations. We’ll guide you through slide manipulation, object use, transitions, and helpful hints for creating an effective presentation.

For more library news and information go to www.cdalibry.org.