Computer Classes at the Library

Computer Basics	Internet Basics
Intermediate Computing	Intermediate Internet
Microsoft Word Basics	Excel Basics
Microsoft Word Intermediate I	Intermediate Excel
Microsoft Word Intermediate II	Online Databases
Basic PowerPoint	Email Basics

Mission: To provide quality and diverse instruction on computers and information skills for the community free of charge. Our intention is not only to instruct our patrons on some of the most basic skills like how to use a mouse and open a file, but also to provide classes that are beneficial to the more advanced computer user. We believe strongly here at Fremont Public Library that something new can be learned in every class.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Teaches Your Computer Classes?
Computer classes are primarily taught by volunteers with extensive experience and expertise in the computer field. One of our instructors was recently named the 2005 Volunteer of the Year by the North Suburban Library System. We also have assistants available in each class helping those enrolled on an individualized basis.
How Do I Register for a Computer Class?
Registration for each class, unless otherwise noted, begins exactly one month prior to the class. For example, if a class were scheduled on March 10th, the registration would begin on February 10th. To actually register, simply visit or call the Reference Desk on the 2nd Floor, 847.918.3206.
How Do I Find Out About New Classes?
New classes will be posted throughout the library or you can contact the Reference Desk. Also, computer classes will be listed in the newsletter. If you are not a Fremont card holder and do not receive the newsletter, visit the Reference Desk and we will give you a complimentary schedule of the classes.
Why Do the Classes Fill Up So Quickly?
Classes fill up quickly because we only have 7 computers in our lab and there is an extremely high demand for computer instruction. If you plan on signing up for a class, please call near the opening of the registration date to ensure your enrollment.
What If a Class Is Filled Up?
You do have the option to place your name on a waiting list in case there are any cancellations, but this is not a guarantee for enrollment in the class.
Where Do The Classes Take Place?
The 2nd Floor Computer Lab.
When Do The Classes Take Place?
We offer classes on Wednesday mornings, Wednesday evenings, Saturday mornings, and sometimes Tuesday evenings.
Other Things I Should Know About Computer Classes at Fremont Public Library…
We offer computer classes in Spanish as well.
Complimentary handouts for all classes are available upon request.
Not every class gives you the interactive experience due to technology limitations.
We welcome any feedback for suggested future classes.
Courtesy reminder calls are given prior to each class.

Computer Basics

Designed for users who have little or no experience.

Topics include:

ü Using the mouse

ü Opening and closing programs

ü Deleting/restoring files

ü Where to find help

Internet Basics

Designed for those with little or no experience on the Internet.
Previous computer experience or Computer Basics class recommended.

Topics include:

ü Following links

ü Browser functions (back, home, etc)

ü Printing/Saving

ü Evaluation of Web Resources

MS Word Basics

An introduction to Microsoft Word.
Previous computer experience or Computer Basics class recommended.

Topics include:

ü Opening/Closing files

ü Creating text documents

ü Formatting text

ü Saving/Printing documents

Intermediate Computing

Continues where Computer Basics left off.
Previous computer experience or Computer Basics class recommended.

Topics include:

ü Customizing the Windows environment (changing wallpaper, screensavers, etc.)

ü Manipulating/creating files & folders

ü Creating/changing toolbars & menus

ü Computer maintenance

Intermediate Internet

Continues where Internet Basics left off. Previous computer experience or Computer Basics class recommended.

Topics Include:

ü More advanced tips and tricks when surfing the Web

ü Advanced search techniques using Google

ü Saving pictures from the Internet

Microsoft Word Intermediate I

Continues where MS Word Basics left off.
Previous computer experience or Computer Basics class recommended.

Topics include:

ü Customizing the MS Word environment

ü Creating tables

ü Working with margins and page layout

Microsoft Word Intermediate II

Continues where MS Word Intermediate I left off.
Previous computer experience and Microsoft Word class is preferred.

Topics Include:

ü Creating and printing letters, envelopes, and labels.

ü Using the wizard tools to complete resumes, faxes, letters, calendars, and reports.

ü Introduction to Mail Merge

Excel Basics

An Introduction to Microsoft Excel
Basic computer and MS Word experience recommended.

Topics Include:

ü What is Excel and How Can this Computer Program Help Me?

ü Creating a Simple Spreadsheet Using Excel

ü Formatting the Cells of a Spreadsheet

ü Working with Mathematical Formulas

ü Saving/Printing the Spreadsheet

Intermediate Excel

Continues where Excel Basics left off.
Basic Excel and MS Word experience recommended.

Topics Include:

ü Naming Cells

ü Copying from One Cell to Another Cell

ü Copying from One Cell to Several Cells

ü Filling Cells

ü Linking Documents

ü Creating Charts

FPLD Online Databases

An introduction to the library’s computer catalog and some of the more popular electronic databases offered through the library.

Topics Include:

ü What is a Database and the Basic Elements of a Search

ü How to Use the Library’s Online Catalog

ü How to Use EBSCO MasterFile Premier (Full-Text Magazine Database)

ü How to Use Reference USA (Business Directory and Online Phone Book)

Basic PowerPoint

An introduction to the presentation program, PowerPoint. It is recommended to have previous computing experience, including Microsoft Word. Familiarity with basic computing concepts is assumed.

Topics Include:

ü What is PowerPoint and How is it Helpful

ü Creating a Blank Presentation

· Inserting a Specific Slide Type

· Formatting and Editing Text

· Applying Colors

· Adding and Deleting Slides

· Adding Pictures and Using Bullets

ü Saving on PowerPoint

ü Printing on PowerPoint

ü Viewing the Slide Show

Email Basics

An introduction to the basic fundamentals of using email. (Please note that through the course of this class the patron must agree to sign up for a Hotmail email account. This is the email program used by this institution for the purpose of instruction and signing up for it is absolutely free. The patron than is under no obligation to continue using Hotmail as their email service.) Previous computing experience or the Computing Basics class is recommended and familiarity with the Internet.

Topics Include:

ü Learn the basic terms and concepts associated with email.

ü Successfully sign up for a free email account using Hotmail.

ü Successfully send and read an email message.

ü Gain a greater understanding for navigating the email landscape.

Fremont Public Library also offers other classes including such topics as eBay, online genealogy, creating a resume with Microsoft Word, health resources online, Amazon.com, and MapQuest. Please note that not all of these classes are offered in every session. To find out more: contact the Reference Desk (847-918-3206) or refer to the most recent newsletter.