LibGuides: Computer Training: Beginner Computer Skills

About

Welcome to the GCLS Computer Research Guide.

This page of the guide covers the basics of computers and the Internet from Computer Science 101 to using the mouse and navigating the internet.

GCLS Computer Classes

Helpful Guides

Getting Started with a Computer
Learn about the basics of your computer with this handy guide.

Check out these helpful guides created by DigitalLearn.org!

Using a Mac
Learn how to use a Mac computer with this handy guide.
Creating a Resume
Learn how to create a resume for job searching in this handy guide.
Navigating Websites
Learn how to navigate websites with this handy guide.
Intro to Email
Learn how to set up and use an email account with this handy guide.
Using Microsoft Word
Learn the basics of creating and formatting a document with Microsoft Word in this handy guide.

Computer Tips

Learn a variety of tips and tricks with computers and other technology through these websites:

How to Geek
Want to learn more about computers and technology? How to Geek offers simple and clear explanations for a variety of technology-related questions.
PC World
Having computer problems? Learn how to solve the 10 most common computer issues through PC World.
TechSpot
Learn a variety of tips and tricks for computers and technology with TechSpot.

Computer Safety

Help keep yourself and your family safe online with these resources:

A Parent's Guide to Internet Safety
Created by the FBI, this guide serves as an introduction for parents in understanding the dangers present online, how to identify them, and protect their children from them.
Avast Antivirus
Protect your computer from a variety of malware and spyware with the freely available Avast. The free version provides all the security essentials a basic computer user needs.
Computer Safety and Maintenance
A one-page list from Norton that provides ways to maintain your computer physically and virtually.
F-Secure's Knowledge Base
Get educated and informed on the latest computer threats with F-Secure.
Internet Safety
Learn about Internet Safety through this series of tutorials by GCFLearnFree.org
Virtual Privacy Lab
Created by the San Jose Public Library, this site features links, tips, and resources to empower yourself and take control of your privacy online.

GCLS Subscription Databases

Are you new to using computers? GCLS provides several databases filled with online courses and tutorials for beginning to advanced computing. All you need is a library card to get started!

For help with these resources, check out these videos:

LearningExpress: Computer and Internet Basics
View interactive lessons on the understanding and using your computer as well as using the Internet.
LearningExpress: Software Skills
View these interactive lessons on using and a understand a variety of programs including Microsoft Offices, Adobe Photoshop, Windows 10, and more!
Universal Class: Computers and Technology
View these interactive computer and technology courses through Universal Class! Courses are provided for a variety of skill levels from using email to learning SQL.

Start here

Digital Learn
Completely new to computers? No problem! DigitalLearn.org features a range of basic computer skills in bite-sized modules for fast learning. Learn how to do things like get started on a computer in 15 minutes or create a resume in 21 minutes!

Need to pick up basic computer skills? Check out these all-in-one resources to help get you started.

GCF Learn Free
Learn about computers and technology through a variety of tutorials on GCFLearnFree.org. They cover nearly everything from learning how to use the mouse and keyboard to how to work a smartphone.

Computers 101

Computer Science 101
No prior experience with computers? No problem! This series of courses, created by Professor Nick Parlante from Stanford University, will take you on a journey through the computer and present essential knowledge through a series of video lectures and hands-on lab work.
History of Computers
Did you know the first computers were actually people? It was a formal job title! Learn about computers from their inception to their development to what we use currently today.

Using the Mouse and Keyboard

Beginning Typing
Follow these interactive lessons to learn the fundamentals of typing on a keyboard. The lessons include explanations on proper hand placement and more.
Learn to Type
This site provides free lessons for people of all ages and is perfect for those in kindergarten through adult. These typing lessons are aligned with Common Core standards.
Mice, Cursors, and Scrolling
Learn about the mouse, cursor, scrolling, and more through this interactive tutorial.
Skillful Senior: Mouse Tutorial
Created specifically for seniors, this tutorial features a combination of text and visuals to cover the foundations of using the mouse.

Email and the Internet

Email Basics
Ready to get started with using email? These tutorials provide the foundations for using and understanding email as well as email safety and etiquette.
Internet 101
Learn about the Internet and major web browsers through this series of tutorials.
Web and Search Tips
Get acquainted with the Internet through About.com's "Net for Beginners" page.

Google Drive & Other Products

Google Workspace Learning Center
Not sure where to start with a Google product like Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, etc? Check out the Google Apps Learning Center for all of your learning needs.
Gmail Learning Center
New to Google's Gmail product for managing your email? Learn all about it here.
Drive Learning Center
Need help with using Google Drive? Learn all of the basics here.
Docs Learning Center
Learn all about Docs, Google's version of Microsoft Word, here.
Sheets Learning Center
Learn all about Sheets, Google's version of Microsoft Excel, here.
Slides Learning Center
Learn all about Slides, Google's Version of Microsoft PowerPoint, here.
Calendar Learning Center
Learn all about how to manage your Google Calendar here.

Text Us!

Text START to (856) 270-7883.

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Librarian by Appointment

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Receive Email alerts whenever guides of interest to you are published.

Gloucester County Board of Commissioners

Commission Director
Frank J. DiMarco

Commission Library Liaison
Joann Gattinelli