Having trouble keeping up with technology? Lost when it comes to doing even ‘simple’ tasks online? Life has become increasingly digital, making it a challenge to do everyday things such as finding a job, shopping for health insurance, or even staying in touch with loved ones — not to mention protecting your identity and avoiding scams — without knowing how to use devices, navigate websites, manage email and more.

Don’t get left behind. Take advantage of free, hands-on workshops at the library that are beginner-friendly and practical. What’s more, you can bring your own device if you like, or use one of ours.

The workshops are made possible through a grant from the Public Library Association and AT&T. Two sessions are scheduled each month in April and May. All sessions will take place from 11 a.m. to noon:

  • April 3 — Computer Basics: Learn basics like how to start your computer, save and re-open a file, and create a folder.
  • April 17 — Working with Apps: Learn about some of the best apps for enhancing your life and having fun with your tablet.
  • May 1 — Facebook Basics: Learn about profiles, messages, posts and adding content to Facebook in this introductory class.
  • May 15 — Excel Basics: Learn how Microsoft Excel’s cells, worksheets, and workbooks easily allow users to manipulate, calculate, and format numbers and other types of data.

Registration is recommended, though drop-ins are also welcome. Call 610-965-9284, email emmauspl@cliu.org, or stop at the desk to sign up for any or all of the sessions. Please indicate if you plan to bring your own device.

If you can’t attend the in-person workshops — or prefer learning on your own — you can access a library of self-paced courses online at DigitalLearn.org. Lessons are organized in short, easy-to-digest modules that include videos and activities. Choices range from getting started with a computer and doing basic internet searches, to online job searching, creating a basic budget with Excel, or buying a plane ticket online, among others. All of the self-paced courses are available in English and Spanish (select a language in the upper left-hand corner of the page). Don’t have a device or an internet connection? No problem. Come into the library and use one of our PCs to work through the courses at your own pace.

So, if you’re new to computers, are a little unsure around technology, or just need a bit of a refresher, the in-person workshops and/or self-paced learning will help you build your skills and gain the confidence to use technology as the tool it’s designed to be.

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About the Public Library Association
The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or pla@ala.org.

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T
We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities. and improving lives. As part of our companywide $2 billion commitment from 2021–2023 to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions. We aim to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008, we’ve committed more than $600 million to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.