Computers

Computer Class Bookmarks

These are some of the computer class teachers' favorite sites. Some of them require you to register so you can keep track of your progress.

Mousercise
Learn how to use the mouse
Mousercicio
Mousercise en Espanol.
New Computer User Tutorial
A tutorial designed for brand new computer users.
Cursillo Nuevo Para Usuario
"New Computer User Tutorial" en Espanol.
Learn to Type Online
Ten lessons that introduce typing skills.
Goodtyping.com
You may choose from over 20 different keyboard layouts. Great for typing in another language/alphabet.
Typing.com
There are typing lessons and practice games.
Sense-lang.org
Learn to use the keyboard and the numeric keypad. Test your speed, get a typing certificate.
typeracer
Improve your speed on this site by entering typing races with your friends or others from around the globe.

Tools

Getting an Email Address
The basics of email, contacts, and calendars and related safety issues.
Local Computer Classes
Guide to free and low-cost computer classes in the Berkeley area.
Apply for a Berkeley Public Library Card
Any California resident is entitled to a free Berkeley Public Library card. Fill out the online form, then come to the checkout desk at any branch and present a photo ID and proof of your current address to get your card.
Facebook for Beginners
New to Facebook? Use this guide to help you get started.
Online Resources from the Library
Get access to online resources like research materials, music streaming, job search help, language learning, and more, all for free with your Berkeley Public Library card.

If you are new to computers, haven't used them for a while, are a little unsure and uncomfortable, or just need a bit of a refresher, we have the tools to help you tackle technology at your own pace and gain the confidence you need to succeed.

Buying a Computer

Before you buy a new computer, read the buying guides put together by PCMag.com and Consumer Reports. Then check the editorial and consumer reviews they provide.

Consumer Reports Ratings
***CHECK - link is an Explora search for personal computer evaluations listed newest first.
PCMag Desktop Buying Guide
PCMag Laptop and Notebook Buying Guide
PCMag Tablet Buying Guide

Can You Trust that Website?

Evaluating Information Found on the Internet
"The Internet epitomizes the concept of Caveat lector: Let the reader beware." Advice from librarians at Johns Hopkins University.
Evaluating Web Pages: Techniques to Apply & Questions to Ask
Guidance in judging the worth of websites, from librarians at UC Berkeley.
Evaluating Websites
"Unlike most articles published in reputable journals and books, many websites do not undergo a rigorous review process. Instead, it's up to you to evaluate any information you use from the Internet." Guidance from librarians at the University of North Carolina.

Computer Classes

Gain the computing skills you need with the Central Library's FREE computer classes for beginners.

Mondays, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Thursdays, 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Classes are held in our third-floor Electronic Classroom at 2090 Kittredge at Shattuck. No sign-up is necessary.

Recursos en Español

Mousercicio
Aprender usar el mouse. Esta es una traducción del original: Mouserobics.
Mecanografía
Para iniciar una sesión, usa el e-mail: bplcomputerclass@gmail.com y la contraseña: reference.
Cursillo Nuevo Para Usuario
Entrenamiento en Tecnología
Aprender La Red

*******does that email still work? Who gets it?

	Central	Branches	Tool
Monday	12-8	10-6	10-6
Tuesday	10-8	10-8	10-6
Wednesday	10-6	10-8	12-8
Thursday	10-6	12-8	12-8
Friday	10-6	10-6	10-6
Saturday	10-6	10-6	10-6

	Get a Library Card
	Manage My Account
	Download eBooks
	Learn About the Library
	Contact Us / Suggestions
	Look at Board of Library Trustees Agendas
	Read the 2024-2028 strategic plan

Find What You're Looking For

Computer Class Bookmarks

Tools

Featured Resource

Digitalearn

Buying a Computer

Consumer Reports Ratings
***CHECK - link is an Explora search for personal computer evaluations listed newest first.

Can You Trust that Website?

More Web-Based Tutorials

Computer Classes

Recursos en Español

Computers

Consumer Reports Ratings ***CHECK - link is an Explora search for personal computer evaluations listed newest first.

Consumer Reports Ratings
***CHECK - link is an Explora search for personal computer evaluations listed newest first.