Digital Gadget Help and Much More at Your Local Library
Adeline Panamaroff
You want to communicate with your friends , learn a new skill or hobby , or listen to an audiobook .
The problem is that you just can ’ t seem to get that app to open , or get access to the online tutorial you need . Don ’ t fret — there ’ s a library program for that ! Public libraries across the province offer a range of technology sessions , hobby meetups , and much more to help you navigate your digital device , develop a specialized skill , or to simply get out and be social .
Grand Prairie Public Library ( GPPL ) offers three technology-based courses on an ongoing basis . Introduction to Computers is “ a quick course going over how to understand basic computer terms , how to find your way around a computer , and learning basics about your smartphone ,” says Charlotte Anderson , Emerging Technologies Librarian at GPPL . Whenever library patrons require oneon-one help with a computer-related issue , a knowledgeable staff member is always available to assist . For more in-depth , software-specific courses , you can register for Graphic Designing with Canva or the Illustrator Class to become an Adobe expert .
On the artistic and social side , GPPL hosts several engaging selections like the Grande Readers Book Club — which focuses on literary selections , Erica ’ s Book Club that is genre-driven , a Knitters Circle , a Ukulele Circle , an Essential Roller Balls class — where you can make your own essential oil roller bottle , and the English Conversation Club , among others .
Edmonton Public Library ( EPL ) offers a wide range of technology-focused courses for the public . The most popular is Tech Time , “ an opportunity for people to get one-on-one support for a specific issue . It can be anything — if you can bring it into the library , we can take a look at it ,” explains Ben Ehlers , Community Librarian at EPL . Run by library staff , this program is offered at several of the library ’ s branches . A basic introduction to computers course , Computer Skills : Introduction to Microsoft Windows , is offered as well . In this course , aspects of Microsoft programs like Word are explored , such as saving and sharing files . If needed , staff can help out with a tech issue at any time while the library is open , although the amount of time they can spend with each person may be limited due to other demands .
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