Residents who have thought about sharpening their computer skills or maybe even acquiring some basic technology knowledge are in luck. The Kewanee Public Library is hosting a Digital Skills Class.
The classes, under the instruction of Grace Clucas with Americorps and Broadband Lab, will provide attendees with the basics about computers, programs, social media platforms and phishing scams.
Clucas said the classes are open to anyone looking to learn or improve basic computer and internet skills. No registration is necessary to join the classes.
Clucas utilizes the Northstar Digital Literacy, a program that helps individuals master basic computer and internet skills for work, learning, and daily life. The program offers educational material and online assessments.
The Kewanee Public Library is the perfect place to host the classes, Clucas said, because librarians were the “original digital navigators” and got on board with technology early on. The library also has computers for the classes.
“They have the perfect combination to host,” she said.
Classes began last Wednesday and are held every Wednesday, except July 3 and Aug. 1, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The next class will be held on Wednesday, June 26. But people who missed the first class aren’t out of luck, she said.
“It’s not a continuous course,” Clucas said and the class allows for people to join in any week.
Some of the areas the classes will focus on is the computer, the keyboard, Google and Microsoft programs, such as Excel, Docs and PowerPoint. The class will also teach people how to use job boards and apply online for jobs; teach people how recognize phishing scams and introduce people to social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
In addition, attendees will be instructed on how to navigate various devices such as tablets, cellphones, laptops and desktop computers.
More information can be obtained by calling Clucas at (309) 678-2979.
