Free Computer Classes

To promote information literary, the library offers a variety of free adult computer classes that are open to the public.

§         All classes are taught in a single session.
§         No registration is required.
§         Please note the skill level required for each course.
§         Space is limited to 20 people per class (if all 20 Technology
           Center computers are available).  Classes are offered on a
           first-come, first-served basis.  The first 20 people to
           arrive and sign-in for class will be admitted.  Doors open 5              minutes early.  Please bring any materials you might need            to take notes.

If you need more information about a class, please contact the Technology Center Library Assistants at: (949) 830-7100, extension 5127.  To be automatically notified by e-mail about our computer classes, please click here to subscribe to our online newsletter.

Introduction To Computers - Learn the basic skills needed to start using a computer, mouse, and keyboard. Individual software applications are not covered.
Prerequisites: None.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, July 11th (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)
§         Saturday, September 6th (8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.)

Introduction to the Internet - Learn the basic skills needed to start finding information and navigating around on the Internet. Email is not covered.
Prerequisites: "Introduction to Computers" class or equivalent experience.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, July 18th (10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)
§         Friday, September 12th (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)
§         Saturday, October 4th (8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.)

Introduction to Email - Learn how to set up a free email account, and how to send and receive email messages.
Prerequisites: "Introduction to Computers" and "Introduction to Internet" classes, or equivalent experience.

§         Friday, July 25th (10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)
§         Friday, September 26th (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)

Introduction to MS Word - Learn the basics of using Microsoft Word to create word processing documents. Learn to create and save documents, add basic formatting; and adjust the page layout, margins and spacing.
Prerequisites: Comfort with using a mouse and keyboard and familiarity with the basics of using a computer.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, October 17th (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)

Introduction to MS Excel - Learn the basics of using Microsoft Excel to create spreadsheets for personal use. Learn how set up a spreadsheet, how to enter data, how to format rows and columns, and how to set up a simple formula.
Prerequisites: Comfort with using a mouse and keyboard and familiarity with the basics of using a computer.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, October 24th (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Introduction to MS PowerPoint - Get ready to learn the basics of PowerPoint, a tool for presentations. This is an introductory class for beginners. We will cover basic startup by having you choose a layout. Then, we'll discuss how to create and delete slides. Common task shortcuts will be presented along with how to insert text, images or sound. Then, we'll go over how to create backgrounds and links. Finally, we'll show you how to re-order your slides, do transition effects/timing and view your final presentation.
Prerequisites: Comfort with using a mouse and keyboard and familiarity with the basics of using a computer.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, October 31st (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)

Buying on eBay - Learn what all the hype is over eBay, the popular online auction service! We will discuss the types of products and services available, tips for navigating your way through the site, the bidding and payment process and how to protect yourself as a consumer.
Prerequisites: Patrons need to be familiar with using a computer and the basics of the Internet. Those new to using the Internet should first take our hands-on Introduction to the Internet course.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, November 7th (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)

Selling on eBay - If you enjoyed our first eBay class: “Buying on eBay”, take the next step by learning how to sell on eBay! People use eBay to sell everything from old, unwanted items to professional products and services. We will discuss seller profiles, auction and fee types, the auction listing, and payment and shipping methods.
Prerequisites: Patrons need to be familiar with using a computer and the basics of the Internet. Those new to using the Internet should first take our hands-on Introduction to the Internet course. In addition, patrons should have taken our first eBay course: Shopping on eBay.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, November 14th (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)

Email 2 - This class is for those who are ready to take the next step with email. Learn how to add attachments, create an address book, create and organize folders, and do other added features. Patrons must already have an email account and know how to send and receive emails. Please bring your Username and Password with you. Those who use a paid ISP email account at home or work (i.e., AOL, EarthLink, Cox, etc.) need to activate their provider’s Web Mail feature prior to class.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Email or equivalent. If you are not already comfortable using the basic features of email: sending, receiving, deleting, and printing messages, it is recommended that you first attend our free Introduction to Email course.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, October 10th (10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)

Buying a Computer - If you are planning to purchase a computer but are overwhelmed by the sheer number of options, this class is for you! Our objectives here are to increase your comfort level in buying a computer and to answer your questions. We will cover determining your needs, staying within your budget, choosing hardware/software and finding potential places to buy.
Prerequisites: None, but it would be helpful to have the knowledge gained by attending our three basic computer classes.

Location: Library Technology Center (Enter through Staff door)
Class Date(s):

§         Friday, November 21st (10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)

Are you a MAC user?
The Mission Viejo Library does not currently offer classes for Macintosh computers and operating systems since we only use IBM compatible PCs in the library.  To assist those patrons using Macintosh systems, we have compiled a list of useful nearby resources.