Computer classes will aid novices

For people who think they are ready to enter the age of technology but have no experience, the Columbia County Library is offering a series of classes to help them get started.

The first Computer Basics 101 course, scheduled for Wednesday, is already filled. But Sherryl James, head reference librarian at the Columbia County Library in Evans, said more are scheduled for September.

"This is geared for the person with virtually no computer experience," James said, adding that people on the waiting list will be called if any of the eight registered participants cancel.

The free course begins with identifying computer components and their functions. "We teach them basic things like how to open a program, how to close it, how to save documents and how to print," James said.

In the series, the Computer Basics class is followed by Internet for Beginners 101, available for anyone who already knows the basics of computer operation. That course will be offered at 10 a.m. Aug. 13 and Aug. 27.

"We get a lot of seniors," James said. The course was held at the former Gibbs Library location, but the current series is the first to be held at the new main library on North Belair Road.

The third and final course in the series is E-mail for Beginners 101. E-mail courses are scheduled for 10 a.m. Sept. 13 and Sept. 27.

Alex Cooper, a library volunteer, will be assisting, then teaching the classes, which are free and open to the public.

James said computer beginners should take the courses in order. A second round of classes will begin in October.

Registration is required for all classes by calling (706) 863-1946 and choosing option four.