Computer classes at NVCL fall into two broad categories: Computer Basics, and Creating Digital Content. Our goal in offering these classes is to inspire discovery and creativity, and to enhance access and inclusion.
This Fall, all classes are 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Intro to iPad
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Oct. 3, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
As tablet computers go, the iPad and iPad mini are market leaders. This presentation reviews the basics of using an iPad tablet computer. Included is an overview of settings, touch navigation options, apps and a couple of cool tools. Drop-in demonstration – no registration needed.
Class Resources >>
Google and the Internet
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Oct. 10, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
This session provides an overview of the Internet, browsers, search engines (featuring Google), and a tour of the Library's website. Search strategies and tips will be a focus along with advice for protecting yourself online. Drop in to this hands-on workshop; bring your own computer or use one of ours (limit of 12 computers)..
Class Resources >>
Intro to Gmail
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Oct. 17, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
This class will provide an overview of Google's 'Gmail' service, showing the steps for creating an account, as well as reviewing basic send and receive functions. Managing your email account will also be covered. This class is for those with little exposure to email who are looking to open and make use of their own online email account. Drop-in demonstration – no registration needed.
Class Resources >>
Library Online Resources
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Oct. 24, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
The library offers a number of really interesting online resources, ranging from Mango Languages and Lynda.com, to Consumer Reports, and many others—free with your library card! Come learn about how to access and use these tools. Drop-in demonstration – no registration needed..
Intro to Cloud Computing
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Oct. 31, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Learn what cloud computing means in practical terms and how it can be really useful. We'll look at some of the cloud services you may already be using and we'll take some of the fog out of your understanding of the cloud. Drop-in demonstration – no registration needed.
Class Resources >>
Intro to Facebook
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 7, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Learn the basics of the continually popular social media platform: Facebook. What are the different ways Facebook can be used? How do I keep myself, my information, and my data safe while using Facebook? And when and how to remove yourself from Facebook? This class is for those seeking a basic introduction to Facebook.
Class Resources >>
Intro to Online Privacy and Security
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 14, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Do you feel insecure about the information you are putting online? This introductory class will look at some of the basics regarding your privacy – keeping personal data personal, and security – keeping yourself safe. Topics covered include smart-phone use, social media, cookies, and more. Come learn some strategies for protecting yourself.
Class Resources >>
Intro to MS Word
Hands-on, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 19, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Learn the basic features of Microsoft Word, a word processing program you can use to create documents. Topics include creating and managing folders, entering and editing text, inserting images, saving files, formatting and setting up for printing. Bring your own computer or use one of ours (limit of 12 computers).
Class Resources >>
Intermediate MS Word
Hands-on, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 20, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
This class goes beyond the basics of finding your way around in Microsoft Word. Learn about using tables to organize text, find and use templates, explore styles and themes, and even try some review options for editing. Bring your own computer or use one of ours (limit of 12 computers).
Class Resources >>
Intro to MS Word in Farsi
Hands-on, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 21, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
This class is in Farsi. Learn the basic features of Microsoft Word, a word processing program you can use to create documents. Topics include creating and managing folders, entering and editing text, inserting images, saving files, formatting and setting up for printing. Bring your own computer or use one of ours (limit of 12 computers).
Class Resources >>
Intro to MS Excel
Hands-on, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 26, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Spreadsheets are a powerful tool for managing data and Excel know-how is essential in many employment situations. We’ll look at the various ways spreadsheets are used, and show you how using this program can make you more efficient. Drop in to this hands-on workshop; bring your own computer or use one of ours (limit of 12 computers).
Class Resources >>
Intermediate MS Excel, Part 1
Hands-on, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 27, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
This class goes beyond the basics of Microsoft Excel. What is “Freeze Panes“? How can I effectively sort information? We’ll create some formulas and try out some Excel functions. Drop in to this hands-on workshop; bring your own computer or use one of ours (limit of 12 computers).
Class Resources >>
Intermediate MS Excel, Part 2
Hands-on, drop-in
Next class: Nov. 28, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
This class builds on the previous two Microsoft Excel classes. We’ll look at conditional formatting as well as other options for graphically displaying information. Drop in to this hands-on workshop; bring your own computer or use one of ours (limit of 12 computers).
Class Resources >>
Intro to Self-Publishing
Demo, drop-in
Next class: Dec. 5, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
So you’ve written the great Canadian novel, and can’t find a publisher – or you’ve put together your family history and want to share it in ebook form. Whatever the case, digital publishing has never had fewer barriers. Come find out some of the ins-and-outs of making your work available to the big wide world.
Intro to Windows
Demo, drop-in
Next class: TBA
This class is designed to help you get started with Microsoft Windows. Using Windows 10, we’ll go over basic layout and navigation, show you some tips and tricks for personalizing your device, and introduce a few important privacy and security settings. Drop-in demonstration – no registration needed..
Class Resources >>
Intro to Mac
Demo, drop-in
Next class: TBA
Become an effective Mac user. Apple's new operating system, OS X Mojave, can be confusing without a bit of guidance. Come learn some tips and tricks as well as way-finding information. Drop-in demonstration – no registration needed.
Class Resources >>
Have a suggestion for a new class?
The computer classes offered by North Vancouver City Library speak to our strategic priorities of inspiring learning, discovery and creation, as well as our focus on enhancing access and inclusion. We offer two main class types: Digital Basics, and Creating Digital Content. The Digital Basics classes are geared toward enabling beginners to get started with participating in the digital world, so they can build on their knowledge base and use computing devices, common software, and online services with confidence. The Creating Digital Content classes are focused on generating digital media using library services like the Digitization and Recording stations.
Classes are supplemented by web-based learning tools such as Lynda.com and Safari Books Online, as well as one-on-one coaching which is available by appointment.
Have a suggestion for a new class? Click here and tell us about it!
1-on-1 Tech Coaching
If you would like assistance with any of the topics you see above, please contact us for a private coaching appointment in one of the following ways:
