Internet Lessons
Library Classes
Spokane Public Library offers hands-on computer classes. Classes last about an hour and a half and require pre-registration. There is a limit of ten people per class. Sign up begins two weeks before the class is scheduled. Check out the online schedule or call 444-5300 for more information.
You can get an overview of what is taught in the following class outlines:
- Computer Basics
- Beginning Internet Explorer
- Smart Searching on the Web
- Web Email
- Budget Travel on the Web
The library will occasionally offer other topic-specific classes, such as searching for scholarships or health information online. Check out the online schedule to see if such classes are available.
Other Local Computer Classes
Spokane County Library System - offers classes on using the Internet and using their catalog.
Community Colleges of Spokane - See the index in the quarterly schedule of classes under "Computer Skills". Programs include:
- Institute for Extended Learning - computer basics, Microsoft programs, Internet. Three to 20 hours long. Cost: $20-200. Microsoft certification classes, cost varies
- Continuing Education Program - computer use and applications classes. One-hour orientation, then use the lab, tutor, and tutorials at your convenience for two months. Also professional computer certification classes available
East Central Community Center Computer Lab
Now open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Address: 500 S. Stone, 625-6699.
Eastern Washington Genealogical Society
Offers classes at the Downtown Library Gates Computer Lab on various genealogical internet topics. Must be a member of EWGS at $25 per year, but classes are free to members.
Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest
Computer assistance for job seekers
Spokane YWCA Opportunity Center
For women only: The YWCA provides training opportunities for those entering or re-entering the workforce, displaced homemakers, victims of domestic violence and high school or college graduates without job skills. Classes are free.
The local technology education organization that offers training and education for individuals and businesses
Online Classes
In addition, there are online sites which provide instruction or classes on using the Web. The following is a list of the better instructional sites, arranged by topics:
Basic Guides
- DigitalLiteracy.gov links to many government and organization sites that will help you learn computer and job skills
- Internet Tutorials from the University of Albany Libraries has a good overview of various aspects of using the Internet
- Learn the Net includes interactive classes, games, and interesting articles for Internet beginners
- Mouse Around - the Palm Beach County Library presents this resource to help beginning computer users become familiar with using a mouse
- Mouse Aerobics is a fun way to practice using a mouse from Monroe County, Michigan
- Education & Training Resources from the Washington State Library lists online courses for using a computer, mouse, and typing
Finding What You Want
- Finding Information on the Internet from the University of California, Berkeley, shows you the best ways to go about searching on the Internet. Although meant for students, this site has useful information for everyone from beginner to advanced searchers
- Choose the Best Search - a good list of sources for different types of information needs, especially homework and academic help
HTML & Other Web Developer Tutorials
- HTML with Style offers a growing list of classes, starting with the basics, on many aspects of web page design
- W3Schools.com is a comprehensive site that includes free instruction for the latest versions of HTML, XML, and JavaScript
Web Access Through the Library
Spokane Public Library has full-service Internet terminals available to valid library card holders. See the Internet Computer Station FAQ and the Internet Use Policy for more information. One hour per day reservations can be made up to a week ahead of time using our self-reservation system. Most internet computers also offer a suite of Open Office products. Some branches also have a 15-minute, first-come, first-served Internet terminal for those without valid cards. All Spokane Public Libraries have wireless Internet access for those with wireless adapters on their own equipment.