Get notified when registration opens for Apple Camp, a summer program at the Apple Store that teaches kids ages 8–12 how to do fun stuff. ITandCoffee offers a wide range of classes for those who need to learn about technology - Apple devices and computers, Windows computers, iCloud, Office 365 products, OneDrive, Dropbox, Making Photo Books and organising your digital photos, Travelling with Technology, Online Safety, Facebook, and more. Our classes are very different to any you.
With technology becoming more and more prevalent in the workplace, it’s more important than ever to have basic computer hardware and software skills. There are some basic computer skills every worker needs to have.
An employer will be looking for computer skills on your resume, and that means you need to be able to know how to use a computer when you’re on the job.
Here are 5 free and easy way to improve your computer skills.
Short on time? Jump down to see some free courses, so you can start learning for free today!
1. Identify what you need to learn.
Most likely, you only have so much free time that you can dedicate to learning a new skill. Accordingly, it’s important to use that time wisely. Whether you’re looking to pivot your career or level up within your current field, analyzing the job description of your ideal position is a great way to identify what skills employers are looking for, as well as the tools you should know how to use.
Tip: The “Requirements” section of a job description is generally a good place to find this information.
Networking is another great way to discover what technical skills other people in your field have, or what software and apps they use on a day-to-day basis. This can be accomplished with a simple question, such as “Have you learned any new skills lately that have helped you in your job?,” or “What’s your favorite software or app that use regularly for work?”
In addition, you can also find much of this information online. If you are a customer service representative, for example, you might search for “customer service software.” Keep an eye out for the specific products that appear in your results. Capterra, a software review company, is another helpful resource for identifying common tools in your trade.
Not sure where to start? The specific skills you need are highly dependent on your position and your field, but you can familiarize yourself with this list of top computer skills to start out. Also review some of the best skills to include on your resume.
2. Start with the basics—and ensure you know how to use a computer.
While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of how to use a computer—ideally, both a Windows or Mac. There are many free resources online. Sites like Lifewire, for example, are very helpful in providing comprehensive tutorials.
These days, it’s pretty common to find free (or affordable) computer training events. Check with your local library, community center or community college to see what they have to offer. In addition, you can take free Mac courses at an Apple store near you.
If you’re working in an office role, consider getting certified in Microsoft Office to improve your skills and add value to your resume.
3. Familiarize yourself with an understanding of how computers (and the Internet) work.
While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of what a computer it is and how it works. In some cases, it can be helpful to learn how the Internet works, too.
Now, do you need master computer science? Absolutely not. But, having an elementary understanding of how the technology that you use functions provides a strong foundation for future learning. Here is a list of some free online computer skills lessons that you can start with:
- Computer Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
- Internet Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
- Computer Science 101 – from Stanford University (Free)
- How the Internet Works – from Khan Academy (Free)
- G Suite Training Center (for Google Apps) – from Google (Free)
4. Take a free online or-in person computer course.
There are many free resources available, both offline and online. Be sure to check out offerings in your community, such as at your local library, community center, community college or YMCA. You can also search on sites like Meetup or Eventbrite for educational events or groups. If you live in Los Angeles, New York City or Chicago, CourseHorse is another excellent resource.
If you’d rather learn tech skills for free online, there are plenty of ways to do so! You should be able to search on YouTube for pretty much anything you want to know. If you’re looking for a more formal learning experience, you can find tons of free college-level courses online on sites like Coursera, EdX and Class-Central. You can also find free, introductory courses on sites like Khan Academy, Codecademy, and Free Code Camp.
Tip: Here’s an extensive list of free and low-cost online computer classes you can take to get started.
5. Apply the knowledge and get hands-on practice.
If a job description requests familiarity with a specific tool, try to see if there’s way to get hands-on experience. For example, say a position requires that you know how to use Trello, a project management tool. You could consider ways you might be able to integrate Trello in your current position. If this is not possible, perhaps there’s a case where you could use it in your personal life—like for planning a trip.
Get as creative as possible. Need to learn how to use Google Calendar? Start using it to plan and schedule your families’ appointments and activities. Need to know how to use Skype? Create an account and use it to make a video call with someone you haven’t talked to in awhile.
Alternately, if you are learning a skill like graphic design, web design or development, there are many ways to practice: you can enter contests on 99Designs, or solicit gigs on Fiverr, for example.
If you need to be familiar with a paid tool or software then you cannot gain access to, look to see if that app offers a demo or has any training videos on its website. At the very least, you’ll have a chance to garner a basic familiarity with the structure and functionality of the software
Remember, you should always be honest with an employer about your skills and abilities. Don’t oversell your skills. If you’re lacking a skill that is listed in the job description, you can always mention that it is something you are currently learning (or intend to learn), and emphasize your ability to pick up new skills quickly.
Bonus tip: Does your company offer an education stipend?
Be sure to check if your company offers any stipends for their employees’ professional development. There are a lot of high-quality online learning programs available for relatively low costs – LinkedIn Learning, for example, is a great option.
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Stark Library is your source for friendly and knowledgeable technology training, whether you're new to computers or want to make the most of your new iphone. We provide tutorials, group learning sessions, and even one-on-one training. ...And did we mention our assistance is free?!
or view all Tech events in the Explore Guide online
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Make the most of your technology with personal assistance from our friendly trained tech experts—available by phone or in-person.
Learn more about our Tech Training services
All classes are offered throughout the year. Please consult the events page for locations, dates and times.
Basic Computer Skills
Welcome to the SCDL Basic Computer Skills pages. The Basic Skills classes focus on the introduction to using a computer. All Classes are part of a Seniors Program Series and General Classes.
Basic Skills: Parts of a Personal Computer
Understanding the physical parts of a computer is an important part of Basic Skills Computer Training. In the Basic Skills Parts of a Personal Computer you can learn about the monitor, mouse and keyboard; about the different ports and their uses as well as the CD/DVD options. You can also learn about necessary power supplies, cables, and cords that work best for your computer.
Basic Skills: Keyboard
Learn the basic keyboard functions; Enter, Space bar, Tab; arrow keys; delete and backspace; Help. Learn the basic functions of the alphanumeric computer keyboard. The instructor will discuss what each key does, and how they work. Make use of your computer's function keys and discover several keyboard shortcuts for common operations. Proper care and cleaning of the keyboard will be taught, as well as tips to begin practicing your typing skills.
Basic Skills: Mouse
Learn about different kinds of a computer's mouse, how they work, and which style of mouse is right for you. Familiarize yourself with operating the scroll wheel and the right and left clicking functions. Get comfortable holding and moving the mouse and discover the different ways it will appear on your computer screen. Fun practice exercises will be shared to help improve accuracy.
All classes are offered throughout the year. Please consult our events page for locations, dates, and times.
Intermediate Skills
Welcome to the SCDL Intermediate Computer Skills pages. SCDL also provides one-on-one assistance with computer skills and computer and technology training classes. Dates and times are listed on the Events Calendar.
Introduction to Software (Microsoft Office Word)
Microsoft Office Word is a word processing software for creating documents such as flyers, announcements, and more. In the Microsoft Word I class you can learn how to open, close and save a documents; basic skills such as cut, copy and paste; basic formatting including Bold, Italics, Underline, Font Color, Font Size, and Font Style.
Intermediate Software II (Files, Folders, and Storage)
Building on your Microsoft Office Word skills in Intermediate Software II, you will be introduced to the Libraries the document storage area of a PC, editing new document and those that already exist, save verses save as, and renaming folders or document.
Intermediate Skills Internet Searching
In the Intermediate Skills Searching class you can learn about basic Internet browsers such as Google and Yahoo; web address Navigation; Internet Explore Tools; the URL; copy and paste; print; bookmark; standard and advanced searching.
All classes are offered throughout the year, please check our event calendar for locations, dates and times
Job Skills and Productivity Training Classes
The Job Skills and Productivity Training Classes include Microsoft Office Suite, iWorks for Mac, Google Apps, as well as other programs that will assist a job seeker or an individual wanting to improve their computer and technology skills.
Apple Mac Products
Meet the Mac I & II
Get to know your Mac in this two part class. Learn the basic features, menus, settings, track pad, keyboard, Mac applications (iLife, iWork), iCloud and Time Machine.
Mac: iPhoto
Join us as we present iPhoto, a Mac software that stores photos, create albums, basic edits, share and edits prints from an Apple Mac, camera or other camera device.
Mac: Keynote
Learn to use iWork’s Keynote presentation software including: Themes; Toolbar; Format Bar, and Inspectors. Learn to add text, images and slide transitions.
Mac: Numbers
Free Online Mac Computer Classes
Learn to use iWork’s Numbers for creating a spreadsheet. Learn about the Templates, Toolbar and Inspectors; work with rows, columns and cells; sorting; and quick formulas.
Mac: Pages
Learn to work with Mac’s Pages. Pages is a word processing software for creating documents.
Communication Tools
Skype
Skype is an online communications site. Patrons will create and learn to use a Skype account; use a webcam while talking to others around the world.
FaceTime
Google Apps
Google Documents
Learn to use Google’s word document creator Google Documents. A Google account is required.
Google Presentation
Learn to use Google’s presentation creator Google Presentation. A Google account is required.
Google Spreadsheet
Learn to use Google’s spreadsheet creator Google Spreadsheets. A Google account is required.
Job Searching Tools
Resume Recovery
Learn the secrets of writing a solid resume that will make a lasting first impression on potential employers.
Microsoft Office Products
Access 2010: I, II, & III (Job Skills Series)
In this three part series, learn basic features of Microsoft Office Access by creating your own database. You will work with the blank database features as well as templates.
Access 2010: IV, V, & VI (Job Skills Series)
In this three part series, learn the basic features of Microsoft Office Access by creating your own database. You will work with the blank database feature as well as templates.
Excel 2010: I, II, & III (Job Skills Series)
In this three part series learn: Open, close, and save; Ribbons; gain an understanding of the basic navigating and formatting skills; AutoSum; a basic Excel formula; sort information and templates.
OneDrive
Learn the basics of OneDrive, Microsoft's online cloud storage for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other Office files. Class includes setting up an account with either an Outlook or Hotmail email address; uploading, downloading files; sharing individual files and entire folders; basic editing in web apps.
PowerPoint 2010: I & II (Job Skills Series)
In this three part series learn: open, close, and save; create a storyboard; learn formatting of text boxes; animation; and how to show your presentation. Build your skills and learn images, graphics, tables and charts; navigation tools; hyperlinks; the Design Template.
Publisher 2010: I & II (Job Skills Series)
Learn to open, close, and save; format; images, clipart and graphics; work with auto shapes, lines and tables. Build your skills and learn to add pages; hyperlinks; design features and templates; convert pages to web design.
Word 2010: I, II, & III (Job Skills Series)
In this three part series learn: Open, close and save; Ribbons; formatting including alignment, font and underline; bullets; tabs; Header and Footers; columns and tables; editing a document.
Excel 2010: IV, V, VI (Job Skills Series)
Microsoft Excel: Continue learning Excel with formulas; Name Ranges; charts; subtotals; Find; Sort/Filter; Mail Merge and more.
Windows 07
Learn the desktop; Start menu; log in, off and shut down. Learn the Computer, Documents and Pictures options.
Windows 8 (Demonstration)
Struggling with Microsoft Windows 8? Join us for a demonstration on some of the
Word 2010: I, II, III (Job Skills Series)
Microsoft Word: navigating; explore fonts, bold, italic and underline; cut, copy and paste. Continue with tables and pictures; Page Layout; Review, and more. popular features of Microsoft Windows 8.
Word 2010: IV, V, VI (Job Skills Series)
Learn to create mass mailing letters; Page Set up and Special Paste; Hyperlinks. Learn to create, store, and access a template.
All classes are offered throughout the year, please check our events for locations, dates and times
Computer Maintenance
Computer Running Slowly?
Is your computer running SLOW? You know there’s something wrong with your computer, but the neighbor kid and tech support talk in a language you don’t understand. This class will focus around the terms Spyware, Malware, Viruses, Hackers and the affects they can have on your computer. You will also discover ways to keep your computer protected from these threats and breathe new life into your online exploration.
Removing Viruses from a PC
Learn this three step process to removing viruses from a Windows PC using the free software Super Anti Spyware Tech Edition, Malware Bytes, and Combo Fix software.
Running an Open Source Operating System
Learn how to download and operate your computer using Ubuntu, an open source operating system
Speed Up Your Old PC with Linux
Thinking about replacing an old PC? Rather than spending hundreds on a new one, consider trying Linux: a fast, safe, and completely free open-source operating system that can replace Windows on any PC. Join us for an overview of what Linux is and why you should consider using it, as well as a hands-on demo of how to install it. (Skills Needed: Basic Skills Windows/Os, Basic Skills PC)
Stay Safe from Viruses & Malware
Basic Apple Computer Training
Learn about malware and how to stay safe from viruses, worms and other malicious software that can infect your PC. Antivirus software is discussed, as well as what to do if you’ve been infected. (Skills Needed: Basic Skills Windows/Os, Basic Skills PC)
E-Commerce
Amazon: A Buyers’ Market Place
Learn to create an Amazon account, shop the site, and learn the many options available on Amazon.com. (This is not an entrepreneur’s class.)
eBay
Learn to shop and sell on eBay; navigate through eBay’s many layers; and create an account. (This is not an entrepreneur’s class)
Getting Creative
Creating Holiday Cards
Learn how to use Microsoft Word to create and print greeting and holiday cards for friends and family.
Mango
Always wanted to speak a second language just for the fun of it? If so, the library has the solution—Mango Complete, a database that can help you become conversational in any one of over 30 languages. Come learn more about this low-stress, self-paced way to learn a language.
Shutterfly: Creating Memories
Join us and learn how to create an online photo album to share with family and friends, or create and purchase a hardbound photo album.
What GIFS?
Learn how to color photos or create your own animated GIFs and post them to social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter or Tumblr.
Getting to Know Your Mac
Meet the Mac I-IV
Get to know your Mac in this two-part class. Learn the basic features, menus, settings, trackpad, keyboard, Mac applications (iLife, iWork), iCloud and Time Machine.
Mac: iPhoto
Join us as we present iPhoto, a Mac software that stores photos, create albums, basic edits, share and edits prints from an Apple Mac, camera or other camera device.
Mac: Keynote
Learn to use iWork’s Keynote presentation software including: Themes; Toolbar; Format Bar, and Inspectors. Learn to add text, images and slide transitions.
Mac: Numbers
Learn to use iWork’s Numbers for creating a spreadsheet. Learn about the Templates, Toolbar, and Inspectors; work with rows, columns and cells; sorting; and quick formulas.
Mac: Pages
Learn to work with Mac’s Pages. Pages is a word processing software for creating documents.
Getting to Know Your Windows Machine
Windows 10
Struggling with Microsoft Windows 10 operating system? Join us for a demonstration and learn about some of Windows 10’s popular features.
Windows 10 (Intermediate Level)
Continue learning about the Windows 10 operating system by exploring the many options of the Start Menu, the different features under Settings and Cortana a voice command search tool.
Take Control of Your Computer
Join us for an overview of the Settings menu in Windows 10 Discover how to uninstall programs, change privacy settings, and customize your computer.
Online Photo Editing, Movie, and Music Making Tools
In the Intermediate Skills Searching class you can learn about basic Internet browsers such as Google and Yahoo; web address Navigation; Internet Explore Tools; the URL; copy and paste; print; bookmark; standard and advanced searching.
Audacity
Learn the basics of editing and recording music using Audacity free recording software.
Digital Cameras 101
Learn the features of a digital camera including zoom, the modes, pixels, composition, depth of field and a free program to add color, depth, cropping.
Digital Photo Tools
Learn to transfer photos from a camera to a computer; explore free online tools for adjusting color and contrast, cropping and eliminating red eye. (Skills Needed: Intermediate Level Computer Skills)
Garage Band
Photo Bucket
Learn the basics of Photobucket, a website for editing and storing images and short videos. Sign up for a free account with a valid email address. (Skills needed: basic skills, email, and internet)
Picasa
Want to edit your photos, but can’t pay thousands for Photoshop? Try Picasa, a free Google product that lets you clean-up and edit your pictures, as well as create collages and posters.
Windows Live Photo Gallery
Learn to upload, edit and store your photos. Download required.
Windows Media Player
Learn how to navigate through your Microsoft Windows Media Play to listen to music or watch a video.
Making Movies with Windows Movie Maker
Learn to create mini movies using your photos, videos, and music using Microsoft Movie Maker. Movie Maker is free software found on most PCs that support Microsoft Windows or can be accessed as a free download.
Research
Academic Search Premiere
Prepare yourself for the coming school year by learning how to find authoritative sources for your research through Academic Search Premier, an extensive scholarly database.
Effective Research Techniques
Calling all college and high school students: want to impress your teachers? Come learn how to find reputable sources for your research with Academic Search Premier.
Chilton’s Auto Repair
Learn how to find diagnostic and repair information for autos and light trucks with the Chilton’s Auto Repair database available through the library.
Climb Your Family Tree: Effectively Using Ancestry.com
Want to learn more about online genealogy? Learn tricks and tips to get results when searching Ancestry Library Edition Database
Social Networking Sites
Social networking is a form of digital communications or a way to share information, videos, and/or pictures with others in you circle of friends. It has become one a typical way for people, groups, communities even education organizations and businesses to communicate information. Most social networking sites require an account to join a community, circle or, family of people who share a common interest.
Do You Instagram?
Instagram is a photo-sharing app that allows users to take and upload photos, apply filters, and share it with the world! Bring your Apple or Android mobile device to use during the demonstration.
Facebook
Learn more about Facebook, a social networking site; create an account; post to friends.
Pinterest
This service provides a fun way to organize your interests online. Learn more about social content sharing and how to “pin” images, videos and other links to your “pinboard.”
Skype
Skype is an online communications site. Patrons will create and learn to use a Skype account; use a webcam while talking to others around the world.
Social Networking for Book Lovers
Connect with other book lovers, participate in online book groups, or just keep track of what you've read with Goodreads. Explore how the site can help you find your next good read right here at the library. (Skills Needed: Internet and E-mail)
Mac Computer Training
Social Networking for Genealogists
Join us and learn about some of the popular social networking sites that can help you with your genealogy research.
Tablets and More
Android Tablet Basics
Join us and learn more about the basic features of an Android tablet such as a Samsung Galaxy.
iPad Basics
Join us and learn more about the basic features of an iPad.
iPad Intermediate
Build your iPad skills and learn about Settings, Mail and Photos.
iPad: Facetime
Learn the basics of using the online video chat app on your iPad, iPod or iPhone.
Kindle Fire (HD) as a Tablet
Join us and learn more about the basic features of a Kindle Fire HD.
Nook (HD) as a Tablet
Join us and learn more about the basic features of a Nook HD.
Our digital collection includes e-books, audio books, music, magazines, videos, and movies. Each section listed below provides information and tutorials on how to download digital materials provided by Stark Library depending on the device you wish to use.
Once you have the Overdrive app it is time to find a great book to read, an audiobook for those long car rides, or a streaming video to watch. Whatever it is that you would like to do, the guides below will help.
From Hollywood blockbusters to best selling authors and artists, you're sure to find something you'll enjoy. But it's not just the latest titles - we also have an extensive catalog of educational materials, children's titles, foreign films, and other hard-to-find content not offered anywhere else.
To set up an account and get started.
1. Go to https://www.hoopladigital.com/register
2. Click on Stark County District Library or find us on the drop down list.
3. Enter your library card number (2133300...) (PIN not required) and click continue.
4. Enter your email address and password that you wish to use for the sign in of your account.
5. Materials lending periods include: Movies 72 hours, Music 7 days, Television Programs 72 hours per episode, AudioBooks 21 days.
6. Enjoy!
Select from our collection of over 3000 digital magazines that can be read on your desktop/laptop or downloaded to an app for reading on a mobile device. So no matter where you are you can have access to your favorite magazine at home or on the go! The library collection account connects you to your local library collection and allows you to check out magazines available in it.
Free Apple Computer Classes
Note: A separate overdrive account is needed to access and read magazines. When a magazine is checked out through the library collection account the magazine will be checked out through the Overdrive App.
Free Online Mac Computer Classes
Go to the Overdrive App and browse the collection and click on a magazine to check out. The Overdrive App enables the magazine to be available for check out, lets you check it out at no charge, and keep it for 21 days, just like our regular eBook collection.
The Overdrive app is available for for the iPhone®, iPad®, Android™, Kindle Fire™/Fire™ HD and many other devices.
Free Apple Computer Classes Near Me
Your library collection account checked-out magazines are available on all the supported apps.