Programs Designed for New Users
The Denver Public Library is helping to bridge the digital divide by
offering classes to help introduce customers to the world of computers. Since mid-August, several Denver Public Library branch locations have offered Basic Computer Skills courses to adults ages 18 and up.
Basic Computer Skills courses are free and open to the public.
Currently, Basic Computer Skills sessions are offered at seven of the library system's locations; due to their popularity, course sizes are limited to 14 students per session, and availability is based on earliest arrivals.
Maria Meraz, a student who has regularly attended the Saturday morning class at the Ross-Barnum Branch Library, says her biggest accomplishment this year has been e-mailing friends and family who do not live in Denver. This week alone, she has close to 30 messages from Mexico. Her husband, Arturo Lopez, attended his fourth Basic Computer Skills session recently and also has been learning basic e-mail functions.
"From my teaching experience at the libraries," recounts Will Smith, who teaches computer usage trainings at three Denver Public Library locations, "parents want to learn how to use computers because their children are using them; learning these skills enables parents to assist their children, and even monitor their Internet browsing habits."
Mr. Lopez agreed, and added that because many applications are on computers, it is a useful skill to know how to use them. With a smile on his face, he says, "E-mailing our family and friends is faster, cheaper, and more convenient than mailing letters!" The family hopes the New Year will bring them a new computer for home use.
Following is an outline of Basic Computer Classes offered at DPL branch locations including: Ross-Barnum (720-865-0145), Hadley (720-865-0170), Woodbury (720-865-0930),
Blair-Caldwell (720-865-2401), Ford-Warren (720-865-0920), Montbello (720-865-0200), and Hampden (720-865-0185):
Class 1: Mouse and Machine I
Powering on and off, mouse skills, highlighting and selecting, minimizing and maximizing windows and basic key functions.
Class 2: Mouse and Machine II
Pracitc using a computer Morse, accuracy, opening programs, performing basic word processing commands, navigating document windows.
Class 3: Documents and Data
Creating and working with Microsoft Word documents. Using toolbars to change fonts, text size, and color, as well as cutting and pasting.
Class 4: Save, Store, Print
Saving, storing and moving documents. Tracking versions, saving multiple copies, transferring work to CD, DVD, flash drive or remote memory. Troubleshooting printing problems, including sending documents to print and using the print monitor.
Class 5: Internet I
Becoming comfortable with the key terms and techniques needed to navigate Web sites and locating information online.
Class 6: E-mail I
Opening an e-mail account, creating workable online address book(s), and learning how to send and receive messages. Mailbox organization tips also will be provided.
For program schedules, please call listed branch library locations for details.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit
www.imls.gov.