Free introductory computer classes are offered to St. Charles Public Library patrons in the Technology Center to introduce brief overviews and orientation to commonly used software and Internet technology. More advanced instruction is available through other local sources including community colleges.

• Classes in the Technology Center are open to St. Charles cardholders only.
• Registration opens on the third Sunday of each month for the next month's classes, and closes when the classes are filled.
• Register at the Information Services Desk or by calling Information Services at 630-584-0076, ext. 1.
• A $10.00 refundable cash deposit is required at the time of registration at the Adult Information Services Desk. Deposits will be returned after attending the last class.
• Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before the start of class. Late cancellations or no-shows will lose their deposit.  Deposits not picked up within 45 days of the class will be forfeited.
• Minimum class size is 6.   Maximum class size is 10.  The Library reserves the right to cancel the class for insufficient registration.
• If a class has not met the minimum registration three (3) business days prior to the class, the registrants will be called to notify them of the cancellation.
• Classes begin and end promptly at the scheduled time.  No admittance after class begins.
• There are no classes offered in July, August or December.

An Introduction to MS Windows
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), and saving. Class is three 1½-hour sessions. Successful completion of this class is a prerequisite to all other computer classes offered. Check the calendar for next class.

An Introduction to MS Word
Learn about word processing using Microsoft Word. Topics include the most popular features: document creation, editing, formatting, printing, saving, lists, tables, 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: Introduction to MS Windows

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

MS Excel Level 1
Learn how to create useful spreadsheets with Microsoft Excel. 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: Introduction to MS Windows

MS Excel Level 2
Learn additional spreadsheet features including: graphing, more functions, cell notes, and templates. 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.
Prerequisite: Introduction to MS Windows

An Introduction to MS PowerPoint
PowerPoint 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: Introduction to MS Windows

An Introduction to MS Access
Learn how to set up a database using Microsoft Access. Learn how to organize and describe information about a collection or topic, for example, a collection of CDs, a customer mailing list, or an inventory of items you want to sell on eBay. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisites: Introduction to MS Windows and MS Excel

An Introduction to MS Publisher
Discover how easy it is to use Microsoft Publisher 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 flyers, award certificates, and greeting cards. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession.
Prerequisites: Introduction to MS Windows and Introduction to MS Word or CONFIDENT ability to use MS Word.

Care and Feeding of Your Computer
Learn how 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, disk and file maintenance, utility program usage, virus and firewall concerns, junk mail filtering, heat and dust concerns, and hardware and software upgrade options. Class is two 2-hour sessions that must be taken in succession. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisite: Introduction to MS Windows

An Introduction to the Internet
This introduction will cover what the Internet is, Internet addresses, links, helper applications, basic searching, evaluating web sites, security, email issues, and choosing an Internet provider. Class is one 1½-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisite: Introduction to MS Windows

Mining the Library’s Online Resources
Learn techniques that work in a variety of the Library’s online databases. Search tips include: finding magazine and newspaper articles, health and wellness information, and business and company records. This is a one session 1½-hour class. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisite: Introduction to MS Windows

Digital Camera Basics
Learn how to get started in the world of digital cameras. See how it works, what the advantages are, and get help choosing a camera and using it. Find out how to transfer, edit, save, and print photos on your computer. Class is two 2-hour sessions. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisite: Introduction to MS Windows

ShortCourses.com - Digital Photography Class, ten individual free online short courses on topics like choosing a digital camera, using your digital camera, and editing digital photos.

An Introduction to eBay
An overview of the online auction service, the basics of bidding and selling, how to search for items, and successful auction tips. This program is a prerequisite for eBay Hands-On Buying and Selling classes. This class does not meet in the Technology Center. Check the calendar for next class.

Online Course: You may fulfill the prerequisite requirement for eBay Hands-On Buying and Selling classes by taking the hour-long online Introduction to eBay class. The online program requires speakers or headphones and the current version of Internet Explorer. Click on the first link, “Streaming audio, text chat, and web pages visited about eBay” to access the full presentation.

eBay Hands-On Buying
eBay Hands-On Buying provides an introduction to setting up an eBay buyer account, how to bid on items, submitting payment transactions, and practical tips. This is a one session 2-hour class. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisites: Introduction to eBay and Introduction to MS Windows.

eBay Hands-On Selling
eBay Hands-On Selling provides an introduction to setting up an eBay seller account, how to list items for sale, accepting and submitting payment transactions, and practical tips. This is a one session 2-hour class. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisites: Introduction to eBay and Introduction to MS Windows.

Email Etiquette
Ever have email problems? Learn how to use email and attachments correctly. Learn how PoP and Web email works. Organize your mail, see how to minimize spam or junk mail. Learn the benefits of your address book and group lists. Class is two 1-hour sessions. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisites: This is a beginner’s course but students must already have an email account and good basic Windows knowledge is required.

Installing and Securing a Home Wireless Network
An overview of how to install a wireless network, why you need to be concerned about security, and what you need to do to secure your network. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.
Prerequisite: Introduction to MS Windows

Library Catalog Basics
A practical introduction to finding materials using the Library’s online catalog. Class is one 1-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.

How to Buy a Computer
Learn how to find the right computer for you! Learn what you need to know to make an informed purchase. Find out what all the terms really mean. Discover what computer makers are telling you and what they are not. The class is for all levels of computer users, whether it’s your first computer or your next. Class is one 2-hour session. Check the calendar for next class.

UPDATED 2/08