Technology and device assistance

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Technology can be frustrating (and unavoidable) but here are some excellent resources you can use to build up your confidence and develop your skills further.

Technology programs

We constantly run diverse technology learning classes - from beginners to advanced. Check our What's On page for upcoming sessions.

Beyond the library, you can also check out your local Community Centres and Neighbourhood Houses for educational opportunities. You can find your closest one here: 

U3A are a community-based organisation which shares educational and other activities with retired or semi-retired people, you can find out more about the local group here:  

 

One-on-one support (Device Advice)

We offer 30-minute, one-on-one sessions with a library staff member for support with your computer, device or technology in general. Some examples of what you can get help with include:   

  • Learning how to use a new smartphone or tablet
  • Setting up an email address  
  • Changing/Understanding your Facebook privacy settings  

… or just a technology question/issue you want support with (or aren’t sure where to start).  

Please note that during a ‘Device Advice’ session staff are unable to:   

  • Perform any financial transactions or sign up to services on your behalf    
  • Provide specific advice as to the correct way to fill forms out   
  • Recommend specific services or products
  • Staff can help you look for warning signs and official reporting options, but cannot confirm whether something is definitely safe or fraudulent 
  • Fix hardware issues (broken screens, malfunctioning parts, removing viruses/malware or recovering lost/corrupted files) 

Staff may decline to assist if a request for assistance is outside of the scope of these sessions. In these cases, we will do our best to recommend a professional service or expert that can assist you further.    

Please fill in the following form to request assistance. We aim to contact you within seven business days to discuss your request  

Click here to view form.

 

Below are some of our upcoming sessions you can book in for. Please select the time and location that best suits you. If you don't see one that suits you, please continue to check back as we create more sessions.

Self-paced learning and online tutorials

For people wanting to learn some new skills (or just build confidence), there are a range of great resources online that you can use which can explore in your own time (and speed). 

  • GCF Learn Free: Free online learn on life skills as well as digital skills, such as job-seeking, reading, mathematics and technology. 

  • Be Connected: An Australian-based website to help build digital skills confidence, courses cover a range of topics and devices. There are also regular free webinar presentations, enabling you to learn remotely from trained presenters.  

  • Digital Learn: From the American Library Association, this page contains resources to help teach the basics of using the internet, computers and devices, while being safe online.   

  • Google Applied Digital Skills: Free video-based lessons, which help with everyday life, job-ready skills and include practice projects. This is part of the Grow with Google initiative intended to teach the practical digital skills that people need to improve job-readiness and open more opportunities. 

Handouts to help get you started: 

Below are the handouts for a few of our beginner digital skills classes, which can help get you started with learning.  We recommend you follow this with some other learning, like self-paced tutorials or try to attend a class when you have the time.

eSafety Resources

Scams and safety can be a big concern in this interconnected world.  

Here are some great resources to ensure that you are able to navigate the online world safely 

  • IDCare: A not-for-profit charity that was formed to provide support for individuals confronting identity and cyber security concerns. This is a great resource for anyone experiencing issues with Identity theft. 

  • Digital Parenting: An online resource by the Australian Parents council with some tips adults about keeping kids safe online  

  • Be Connected: Free online digital education, with emphasis on protecting yourself from scams; check out these courses  

Jobseeker and upskilling resources

If you are looking for work (or upskilling opportunities) here are some great resources to explore.  

Interested in more advanced MS Office skills?

 

Upcoming sessions