Library To Host Computer Classes

The James Prendergast Library will offer area residents several opportunities this fall to learn computer skills.

3-D Printing Class is a 90-minute, single-session class that introduces attendees to 3-D printing. Each class contains information about the history, mechanics and applications of 3-D printing, including object manipulation in MakerWare and printing on a Makerbot Replicator 2. There are no prerequisites, and registration is not required. Classes meet from 1-2:30 p.m. on Wednesdays: Sept. 24, Oct. 8, Oct. 29, Nov. 5 and Nov. 26.

Introduction to Microsoft Office 2010 – Excel and Word will meet for four 90-minute sessions from 2:30-4 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays: Sept. 10, Sept. 12, Sept. 17 and Sept. 19.

The class will repeat Oct. 15-24 and Nov. 12-21. Those attending will learn how to work with and analyze numbers using a spreadsheet and how to create and edit documents.

Basic Computer classes will meet for six two-hour sessions from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The first introductory course runs Sept. 15-26.

Other six-part courses covering Basic Computer material will start on Oct. 20 and Nov. 3.

More classes will also be available next February and March.

The basic computer class covers computer terms, turning terminals on and off, using a mouse, navigating the Windows operating system, creating letters and resumes with Microsoft Word, and saving to different computer drives. Students also learn how to set up, send and receive email and use the Internet for purposes such as job searching.

Instruction will be offered in cooperation with Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES with support from the New York State Library’s Adult Literacy Library Services grant program.

The basic classes, which are free and open to the public, will be offered in person in Jamestown and through videoconferencing at the Dunkirk and Olean public libraries.

Prendergast Library also offers one-on-one technology assistance by Learning Lab technicians. Anyone who would like help with a tablet, computer or software may schedule an appointment. Questions about devices such as Kindles and iPads are very common.

For information or registration, call 484-7135, or visit Prendergast Library at 509 Cherry St.