Computer Classes

Classes Offered in the Technology Center

Free introductory computer classes are offered to St. Charles Public Library patrons to introduce brief overviews and orientation to commonly-used software and Internet technology. More advanced instruction is available through our online classes or community colleges.

The Tech Center will close 20 minutes before scheduled class time and reopen 15 minutes after the conclusion of the class, unless the library is due to close.

Computer classes are taught using Windows 10 and Microsoft Office 2016, unless otherwise noted. Most classes are two 2-hour sessions that meet on two separate days. You are expected to attend each session. 

Check our calendar for this month's computer classes.

Registration Information:

• Classes are open to St. Charles adult cardholders only.
• Registration begins on the third Sunday of each month for the next month's classes, and closes when the classes are full. 
• Register online through our calendar.
• First-time students have priority for registration. Patrons wishing to take the same class more than once may be placed on the class’ waiting list. Library staff will notify them if space is available within 48 hours of the class date.
• The Library reserves the right to cancel a class for insufficient registration, or in the case of emergency. Library staff will notify registrants of any cancellation.
• Maximum number of students per class is 10.
• Classes begin and end promptly at the scheduled time.

St. Charles Public Library Classes:

Computer & Internet Basics
This orientation to computers is ideal for those who have had little exposure to computers. There will be an overview of parts of the computer and terminology including: desktop, menus, mouse instruction, scrolling, clicking, keying (typing), saving, and basic Internet skills. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Successful completion of the class is a prerequisite to all other computer classes offered. Or click here for our checklist to see if you are confident with computer basics skills to skip this requirement. Check the calendar for next class.

Email 101 
Just getting started with email? Email 101 will show you how to register for an email account, navigate an email interface, compose, send and receive messages, use common features, and upload and download attachments. The course will also overview safety concerns and etiquette.  Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics

Amazon 101 
Learn the Basics of how to use Amazon including the different types of Products and Services that Amazon offers.  Topics include signing-up, finding and purchasing items, returns, and an overview of all the other Amazon services. Enjoy using Shopping, Music, Video, Books, Audible, Magazines/News, Games, and Apps. Have a great time while learning about Amazon! Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.

Android for Beginners 
This class is designed for people new to Android devices. You will learn the physical layout of buttons and features, how to navigate home screens and apps using finger gestures, how to connect to the Internet, how to charge and care for your device and how to use some of the basic apps. We’ll also explore the Play Store and take a look at important settings you need to know. Participants must have a device to bring to the class. The Library will not provide devices during the class. (Android devices include but are not limited to: Samsung, Nexus, Asus, LG and Motorola). Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class.

Apps of Windows 10
Take a further look at Windows 10 as you learn more about the essential apps that comes with the operating system. Get an overview of apps including: Calendar, Groove Music, Mail, Microsoft Wi-Fi, and more… Get more out of Windows 10 by learning more about the apps that make it essential! Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.

Backing Up Your Data
A look at various ways to back up your important data (pictures, videos, music, email, etc.). Options, including the "Cloud" and online services, will be examined. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics  

Build Your Own Computer 
In this class, you will learn what it takes to build your own desktop computer. Learn the steps it takes to plan your build, which includes required parts, skills, software, tools, and costs. Discover the benefits and rewards of creating your own custom rig. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.  

Digital Camera & Photo Editing Basics
Learn how to get started in the world of digital cameras. See how they work, as well as various advantages, options and considerations. Get help choosing a camera and using it. Find out how to transfer, save, basic editing and organizing photos on your computer. Also taught are photo editing techniques using available free software. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics 

eBay Buying and Selling
Learn how to buy and sell on eBay. Topics include: setting up an eBay and PayPal account, finding and bidding on items, selling items, payment options, mailing options, and practical tips. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisites: Computer & Internet Basics 

Facebook 101
Learn about social media using Facebook. Topics covered include: managing your account, connecting with friends and family, sharing photos, etiquette and privacy settings available in Facebook.  Participants need to establish their own Facebook account before coming to class. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics. Participants MUST have a Facebook account prior to attending class. 

Instagram 101 
Instagram is a popular photo-sharing and social networking app. Learn how to create an account and navigate the Instagram interface. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics. Participants MUST have an Instagram 101 account prior to attending class. 

Introduction to Google Docs
Google Docs is a free web-based software offered by Google. It allows users to create and edit documents online while collaborating in real-time with other users. In this basic introduction class, learn how to work “in the cloud” with Google Docs. The class covers how to create, edit and print a basic document. Discover how to manage, share and protect your documents. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics

Introduction to iCloud 
Learn more about iCloud and how it keeps the latest versions of photos, documents, apps, notes and contacts up to date and synchronized on all your Apple devices. This class will look at how to create an account, access the App store, and gain a better understanding of an Apple ID and what it is used for. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics.

Introduction to MS Excel 2016 Level 1
Learn how to create useful spreadsheets with Microsoft Excel 2013. Save time and effort for home and work calculations of any type. Topics include the most popular features: workbook creation, editing, formulas and functions, formatting, printing and saving. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession.  Check the calendar for next class.  Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics 

Introduction to MS Excel 2016 Level 2
Learn additional spreadsheet features including: graphing, more functions, cell notes, templates, and protection. Learn to link spreadsheets for added flexibility and power. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession.  Check the calendar for next class.  Prerequisites: Computer & Internet Basics AND MS Excel 2016, Level 1

Introduction to MS PowerPoint 2016
PowerPoint 2016 is the best-selling presentation graphics program in the world. It is used by business people, lecturers, students, exhibitors, and others to easily create effective presentations for many occasions. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class.  Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics 

Introduction to MS Publisher 2016
Discover how easy it is to use Microsoft Publisher 2016 to create projects for home and work. This class will cover the basics of using the software, formatting text, and adding graphics. The class covers how to make fliers, award certificates, and greeting cards. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisites: Computer & Internet Basics AND CONFIDENT ability to use MS Word 2016.

Introduction to MS Word 2016
Learn about word processing using Microsoft Word 2016. Topics include the most popular features: document creation, editing, formatting, printing, saving, lists, and headers and footers. Create great looking professional letters and envelopes. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics 

iPad / iPhone for Beginners 
This class is designed for people new to iPads / iPhones. You will learn the physical layout of buttons and features, how to navigate home screens and apps using finger gestures, how to connect to the Internet, how to charge and care for your device and how to use some of the basic apps. We’ll also explore the App Store and take a look at important settings you need to know. Participants must have a device to bring to the class. The Library will not provide devices during the class. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession.Check the calendar for next class.

Keep Your Computer Safely Running
Learn to maintain your computer for better performance, reliability, and usability. Keep your computer safe and enjoy your system more. Topics include: program install/un-install considerations, disk and file maintenance, utility program usage, anti-virus and security options, power, heat, and dust considerations, hardware and software upgrade and update options. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics 

LinkedIn 101
In this course you will learn about the basics of using LinkedIn. Topics covered will include the various sections that makes up a profile, connections, endorsements, and more. Learn how to use this popular social media site to help raise your visibility to potential employers and/or job seekers. Participants need to establish their own LinkedIn account before coming to class. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next session. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics. Participants MUST have a LinkedIn account prior to attending class. 

MS Word 2016 2: Beyond the Basics
Learn how to use advanced features of Microsoft Word 2016 to save time and improve the formatting of your documents. Topics include tables, clip art, the Auto Correct feature, custom tabs, tables, outlines, and using Mail Merge to create labels. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class.  Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics AND Introduction to MS Word.

Overview of Windows 10 
Curious about the new Windows 10 operating system from Microsoft? Learn why and how to convert into Windows 10 properly. Get tips and tricks on how to make Windows 10 easier to use, including organizing the new start menu and finding your old Windows 7 favorite features. Hear suggestions that will enhance your Windows 10 upgrade experience and help you avoid mistakes. This class is designed for users who are already familiar with Windows 7, Windows 8 or 8.1 and are thinking about upgrading or have tried and still need some help. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class. Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics.

Twitter 101 
In this course you will learn about the basics of using Twitter. Topics covered will include @replies, direct messages, hashtags, and retweets. Learn how to find people to follow and search for information about your interests. Participants need to establish their own Twitter account before coming to class. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.  Prerequisite: Computer & Internet Basics. Participants MUST have a Twitter account prior to attending class.