The James V. Brown Library, 19 E. Fourth St., will host weekly workshops in August for adults interested in learning more about computers and email.

The basic computer classes will take place on Wednesdays in August from 1:30-2:30 p.m. in the Lowry Room and are limited to 5 people per class.

Topics are:
Week 1 – August 7 – Computer Basics and Introduction to the Internet
Week 2 – August 14 – Creating a Gmail account and using G Suite (Google Calendar, Google Docs, etc.)
Week 3 – August 21 – Connecting with people on Facebook
Week 4 – August 28 – Introduction to Microsoft Word

Class participants can attend all classes or only the ones they need. Those who attend all four will receive a free USB flash drive. This is a hands-on class so people can bring their own laptop or tablet or use one of the ones provided by the library.

The first workshop, “Computer Basics and Introduction to the Internet,” is for adults who are new to computers and want to learn more about filling out online forms. The workshop will introduce computer basics such as how to turn on a computer, how to use a mouse and the basics of a Windows operating system. There also will be an overview about how the Internet works, how to use it and how to search. There will be time for questions but this is a hands-on learning workshop.

The second workshop, “Creating a Gmail account,” will cover the basics of using Gmail for email. Topics will include managing your inbox, composing emails, using folders and more. If you do not have a Gmail account, you will have an opportunity to create one. If you do have a Gmail account, bring your login and password. This is a hands-on workshop and computers are provided. If you have a tablet or laptop you would like to use, please bring it to the workshop.

The third workshop, “Connecting with People on Facebook,” will teach users how to create a Facebook account, how to find friends and family members, how to join groups, and go over the basics of creating a post.

The fourth workshop, “Introduction to Microsoft Word,” will introduce class participants to Microsoft Word, which is an essential tool in today’s digital age for working professionals, students and volunteers. This class will use Microsoft Word 2016 and attendees will learn about the “ribbon,” how to create and format documents, insert clip art and tables, and save your work. Participants must be experienced using a mouse, track pad and keyboard to attend this session.

Registration is required for both classes and can be made at calendar.jvbrown.edu or by calling 570-326-0536. Both programs will be presented in the Lowry Room on the third floor of the Welch Children’s Wing.

This is one of the many ways the library supports the PA Forward initiative through providing information literacy opportunities for learning. When Pennsylvania residents know how to use current technology to improve their education and enhance their skills, they can fully participate in a digital society.

The James V. Brown Library is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; and 24/7 at http://www.jvbrown.edu.

The James V. Brown Library, 19 E. Fourth St., Williamsport, Pa., is the place to go to learn, connect and grow. Founded in June 1907, the library champions the love of reading, opens new doors to lifelong learning, provides a haven to those who seek and ensures the preservation of public library services for future generations. The library has more than 225,000 visitors in a year and circulates a half-million items annually. A member of the Lycoming County Library System, the James V. Brown Library participates in PA Forward, a statewide initiative to promote literacies in our communities to power a better future for everyone.