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Becoming tech savvy
Becoming tech savvy is as easy as contacting your local library, senior center or community center.
Technology is changing so rapidly these days, it can seem overwhelming. You might think it’s easier to keep your flip phone or stay off the Internet. However, if you do you’ll miss out on some great ways to connect with loved ones, get the latest news, participate in
In addition to the Mobile Library and the iPads, the library offers “Speak to a Geek” sessions on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. You can get answers to your tech questions or assistance in operating any of your digital devices. Sessions are on a drop-in, first-come, first-served basis. One-on- one assistance with computer programs using any of the library’s laptops is also available. For more information, contact the library at 517-546-0720
or visit the website at www.howelllibrary.org.
Monroe County
“Historically, this has been a fun class, run by a very patient lady who is just as lovely and sweet as can be!”
social media, and enjoy some entertaining The Frenchtown-Dixie Branch Library in Monroe
games. Classes or a few tips and some practice are all you need.
There are many opportunities to learn about how computers or laptops function, expand your knowledge about mobile devices, use of social media and more. There are many free classes offered through local libraries, senior centers, and community centers. Here are a few you may be interested in, but be
sure to see what’s available in your community.
Livingston County
In 2014, AAA1-B’s Director of Community and Business Advancement Ann Langford was serving on the Board of Directors for her local library in her hometown of Howell. Ann helped the Howell Carnegie District Library obtain a grant in order to purchase two iPads dedicated for use in the mobile library that travels to assisted living centers in the area. Each device is loaned out for a month at a time and is loaded with Facebook, Gmail, Lumosity, and links
to easily maneuver to other popular websites.
Two years ago, when the devices were first available, interest was slow. But now the iPads are checked out on a regular basis. Jerilee Cook, head of reference in adult services, explained, “When the mobile unit visited Sanctuary at Woodland Assisted Living in Brighton, we had a lady who circled us for a while. She men- tioned that she was eying the iPads and wanted to try it. And that’s pretty typical. Sometimes people just want to give it a try to see what the experience is like.”
offers a “Senior Moments in Computing” mobile lab, a free, six-week course for adults, age 55 plus, who have limited computer knowledge. According to Community Librarian Jane Steed, “Historically, this has been a fun class, run by a very patient lady who is just as lovely and sweet as can be!” Students work on laptop computers while learning how to create
a document in Microsoft Word, compose email, connect and maneuver through the Internet. For
Classes can be fun, challenging and open a whole new world of socializing and activity.