Classes give a 'leg up' on technology

A series of free technology classes to strengthen practical skills and knowledge are being planned for this fall by Pierce County Library System at its branches in Eatonville, Graham, Spanaway and South Hill, among others.

The classes in the Get Smart series include Computer Basics, Introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel, Internet and Cloud basics, technology help, web safety and iPad basics. The libraries also offer courses in 3D printing.

Registration is required for some classes.

Classes and branch locations include:

• Eatonville, 205 Center St. W. 3D Printing Revolution, Nov. 15, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.
• Graham, 9202 224th St. E. Web Safety, Oct. 17, 3 to 4:20 p.m.; 3D Printing Revolution, Nov. 1, 4 to 6 p.m.; Excel Intro, Nov. 14, 3 to 4:30 p.m.; Computer Basics, Dec. 5, 3 to 4:20 p.m.
• Parkland/Spanaway, 13718 Pacific Ave. S. Tech Help, Oct. 4, Oct. 18, Nov. 1, Nov. 15, Dec. 6 and Dec. 20, 3 to 5 p.m.; 3D Printing Revolution, Nov. 6, 1 to 3 p.m.
• South Hill, 15420 Meridian E. Tech Help, Oct. 4, Oct 18, Nov. 1, Nov. 15, Dec. 6, Dec. 20, 2-4 p.m.; 3D Printing Revolution, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to 12 noon; Excel Formulas, Dec. 2, 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon.

Online tools such as Lynda.com and Universal Class for tutorials and online courses in a variety of subjects are offered. Access to Microsoft Imagine Academy to develop computer skills and learn languages is also available free with a Pierce County Library card.

People can also use the Book a Librarian service for one-on-one, in-person tutoring on computer and mobile devices and library resources. To schedule a session with a librarian, sign up online at getsmart.pcls.us.

“Technology plays a role in almost every aspect of life,” said Pierce County Library executive director Georgia Lomax. “These Get Smart classes give people the leg up they need to use, understand and create with technology.”