(Posted Jan. 19, 2017)
By Kristy Zurbrick, Messenger Editor
Want to learn how to use a computer or surf the Web? Don’t know how to connect to Wi-fi using your smartphone or how to download books using your eReader? London Public Library can help.
Starting in February and running through May, the library is offering digital literacy classes covering basic computer skills, an introduction to the Internet, online databases, and genealogy research.
Classes are free and take place in the Hartley Room in the library’s lower level. Seating is available on a first-come, first served basis. Participants can bring their own laptops or use the library’s computers.
In addition to the classes, the library offers one-on-one instruction on word processing and spreadsheets from 1 to 2 p.m. weekdays on a drop-in basis in the main floor computer room. Also, patrons can stop by the computer room anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekdays for on-the-spot help with any kind of basic computer or digital task, from how to attach documents to an email to transfer-ring a photo from your phone to your computer for printing.
All of this practical information and instruction comes courtesy of Guiding Ohio Online, a federally funded program administered by the State Library of Ohio. The program’s purpose is to improve digital literacy in rural Ohio by supplying libraries with individuals who can tutor patrons in one-on-one and classroom settings.
Don Colley is London Public Library’s Guiding Ohio Online guru. A South Charleston resident originally from London, Colley jumped at the chance to put his experience with and love for all things computer-related to work in his hometown. He has been a fixture in the library’s computer room since November.
“I want to help people be comfortable using a computer,” Colley said. “I can work with all skill levels. You’ve got to start somewhere, and you can start with me. I promise to be patient.”
Colley’s first experience with com-puters came during his service in the Air Force. Through a variety of civilian jobs, he went on to become adept at software installation and training, storage and retrieval, and system maintenance. He loves to tinker with computers, taking them apart and putting them back together again, and he enjoys sharing his knowledge with others.
Guiding Ohio Online (GOO) is an AmeriCorps program granted by Serve-Ohio and the Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism. Full-time GOO members commit to 1,700 hours of work over an 11-month period; part-time members commit to 900 hours in that same time frame. For their service, members receive an education award and a small living allowance. Colley is a part-time member.
For more information about the up-coming computer classes or daily assistance with computer-related ques-tions and programs, call (740) 852-9543, stop by the library at 20 E. First St., London, or visit www.london.lib.oh.us.
Practical Computing Classes at London Public Library
The following classes are free and take place in the Hartley Room on London Public Library’s lower level.
• Basic Computer Skills—Learn how to start using a Windows computer and tool to keep you and your computer happy.
– Feb. 2, 6 p.m.
– Feb. 3 and Feb. 10, noon-1 p.m.
– March 2, 6 p.m.
– March 3 and March 10, noon-1 p.m.
– April 6, 6 p.m.
– April 7, noon-1 p.m.
– May 4, 6 p.m.
– May 5 and May 12, noon-1 p.m.
• Introduction to the Internet—Learn how to get online, surf the Web safely. Learn basic navigation skills, search engines and how to get an email address.
– Feb. 16, 6 p.m.
– Feb. 17, noon-1 p.m.
– March 16, 6 p.m.
– March 17, noon-1 p.m.
– April 13, 6 p.m.
– April 14, noon-1 p.m.
– May 18, 6 p.m.
– May 19, noon-1 p.m.
• Ohio Web Library (Online Databases) Application Class—Learn how to get information from the Internet by using the Ohio Public Library Information Network.
– Feb. 24, 1-2 p.m.
– March 24, 1-2 p.m.
– April 21, 1-2 p.m.
– May 26, 1-2 p.m.
• Genealogy—Learn some how-to’s, do’s and don’ts on family tree research.
– Feb. 23, 6 p.m.
– March 23, 6 p.m.
– April 20, 6 p.m.
– May 25, 6 p.m.