Ready, Set, Grow!

Only two more weeks to contain your enthusiasm about gardening!

Marlene Sehen, our favorite gardener, is back again for our second annual container gardening class.

Via Our Enchanted Garden

On Saturday, April 28th, head on over to the Main Library to learn how to grow your own food. Bring your curiosity and container and we will provide the information, compost, seeds and plants to help you start your own container garden. The two-hour class will start at 10 am. 

Via hddod

Spring Tech Sessions

This Spring, we're starting a Tech Sessions series at the Main Library to help intermediate technology users navigate today's complicated information landscape. During the next few months and beyond, we'll be offering workshops on social media, Internet searching and security, eBooks, and more. Here are the Tech Sessions coming up in March, April, and May.

from humedini via Flickr

eBook Madness!
Want to learn more about eBooks and eReaders? Do you have questions about your device? Stop by for this informal session, play with some gadgets, and get your questions answered.

Main Library - Gellman Room
Friday, March 23rd, 3:00 - 5:00 pm


Facebook Clinic
Are you lost on Facebook but want to stay in touch with friends and family? Come to this informal open house computer lab clinic and bring your questions. Some general Facebook instruction will be provided, but the class format will be open to suit the needs of attendees.

Main Library - Conference Room G, Lower Level
Thursday, March 22nd, 3:30 - 5:30 pm


Internet Security Workshop
Are you concerned about your online safety and privacy? Come to this workshop for tips on ensuring your information is secure while you’re online.

Main Library - 2nd Floor Computer Lab
Saturday, April 21st, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm


Advanced Online Searching Workshop
Delve deeper into the Web! Use advanced search engine features and learn about research databases provided by Richmond Public Library.

Main Library - 2nd Floor Computer Lab
Saturday, May 5th, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm


Do you have a suggestion for a Tech Session topic? We'd love to hear from you. E-mail dana.smook@richmondgov.com or leave a comment below.

Compost Now!

Come to the Ginter Park Library next Saturday to meet Marlene Sehen, a local gardening guru and owner of E-Scapes Landscaping. She will be holding a free class introducing a variety of ways to compost as preparation for better growing and better environmental stewardhsip.

The class will be held at Ginter Park Library (1200 Westbrook) on November 19th from 2-3PM. Stop by and get some tips on saving money while growing beautiful flowers and produce this spring!

African American Studies Community Course

We are so excited to host a six-week course on African-American studies that will be totally free and open to the public. Explore the history, culture, politics, and contemporary life of persons of African descent through lectures, films and discussions. These classes will be presented by Dr. Shawn Utsey, VCU Department of African American Studies and Afrikana Student Union, VCU. 

The first class starts this week on Wednesday, November 2nd at 6:30 PM. The topic for tomorrow's lecture is the American Voodoo Construct. Students will explore the Voodoo concept in American popular culture. Special guest, Dr. Iyelle Ichile, will help discuss the Voodoo Construct as a collection of images and rhetoric concerning African spirituality.

"This topic emerged as a result of several contemporary incidents of harsh material and social consequences meted out to followers of these faiths in place like Louisiana, Haiti, and even Ghana. 'Voodoo' is more a part of Euro-American folklore than any black religious tradition. As such, 'Voodoo' reflects both the racial ideologies and racialized nationalist anxieties of white America."   - Dr. Shawn Utsey

Classes will be held on Wednesdays from November 2nd through December 14 (except the Wednesday before Thanksgiving), from 6:30-8:30 PM at the Main Library. This is such a special opportunity for the Richmond community, and we hope to see many people in attendance. Please call Dr. Utsey at (804) 828-1384 with any questions.

Computer Classes this Fall

Now that the kids are back in school, maybe you're ready to learn a new thing or two? Well of course the public library is the perfect place for that, but did you know we offer a variety of free computer classes for adults? Most RPL branches offer classes designed for beginner computer users. The Main Library offers classes for beginners as well as those for intermediate users, including courses on the Microsoft Office Suite programs. We also offer classes specifically for seniors, which cater to the interests and learning styles of older adults. Here's what's coming up during October - December:

 

Classes for Beginners

Computer Basics 1: Introduction to Computers

Your first step to getting computer smart! Learn about the parts of the computer and how to use a keyboard and mouse.

• Tuesday, October 4     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab
• Wednesday, October 5     10:00 - 11:00     East End Library 
• Tuesday, November 1     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab

Computer Basics 2: Using Windows

Learn the basic skills you need to use the Windows XP operating system.

• Tuesday, October 11     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab\
• Wednesday, October 12     10:00 - 11:00     East End Library
• Tuesday, November 8     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab

Computer Basics 3: E-mail & Internet

Explore essential websites and practice sending e-mails. The instructor will help new students sign up for an e-mail account.

• Tuesday, October 18     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab
• Wednesday, October 19     10:00 - 11:00    East End Library
• Tuesday, November 15     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab 

Computer Basics 4: Managing Your Files

Learn about files and the organization of your computer.

• Tuesday, October 25     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab
• Tuesday, November 22     4:30 - 6:00     Main Library, Basement Computer Lab

Intermediate Classes

Introduction to Excel

Learn how to get the most out of Microsoft Office

Excel 2007 in this class for beginners. The class will meet for three sessions in the Main Library’s Second Floor Computer Lab.

Excel 1 - Wednesday, October 5, 5:30 - 6:30
Excel 2 - Wednesday, October 12, 5:30 - 6:30

Excel 3 - Wednesday, October 19, 5:30 - 6:30

Introduction to Word

Learn the basic functions of Word 2007 in this class for beginners. The class will meet for three sessions in the Main Library’s  Second Floor Computer Lab.

Word 1 - Wednesday, November 2, 5:30 - 6:00

Word 2 - Wednesday, November 9, 5:30 - 6:30

Word 3 - Wednesday, November 16, 5:30 - 6:30

Introduction to PowerPoint

Create professional-quality slideshow presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint 2007. The class will meet for two sessions in the Main Library’s Second Floor Computer Lab.

 PowerPoint 1 - Wednesday, November 3, 10:00 - 11:30

 PowerPoint 2 - Wednesday, November 10, 10:00 - 11:30

Introduction to Publisher

Explore the possibilities of Publisher 2007. Learn to create documents with text, borders, and graphics. The class will meet for two session in the Main Library’s Second Floor Computer Lab.

 Publisher 1 - Thursday, December 1, 10:00 - 11:30

 Publisher 2 - Thursday, December 8, 10:00 - 11:30

Classes for Seniors

Students must be 55 or older. Classes are held in Main Library’s Conference Room G, Lower Level (Basement Computer Lab).

Introduction to Windows

This class will teach you to use the mouse and the keyboard and help you understand Microsoft Windows XP.

 Thursday, October 6, 1:30 - 3:15

Introduction to the Internet

Learn how to use Internet Explorer to access and navigate websites. If time permits, students who wish to create e-mail accounts will have an opportunity to do so.

Thursday, October 13th, 1:30 - 3:15

Searching the Internet and Using E-mail

Expand on the skills learned in Introduction to the Internet.

 Thursday, October 20th, 1:30 - 3:15

Students must register for all of these classes, as space is limited. Visit your library or call (804) 646-2551 to sign up. Registration opens 30 days before a class is scheduled to begin.

New@the Main Library: Computer Classes for Seniors

It’s never too late to learn! But Seniors learn differently, and these classes are tailored to their needs and interests. If you know a family member, neighbor, or friend who might benefit from these classes, please tell them about this opportunity.

Seating is limited. Call 646-2551 to register. Class is for seniors age 60 and over.

All classes are 2:00 – 3:45 PM in Conference Room G, Lower Level of the Main Library.

Thursday, April 7th
Introduction to Windows
This class will teach students to use the mouse and the keyboard, and help them understand Microsoft Windows.

Thursday, April 14th
Introduction to the Internet
Students will learn how to use Internet Explorer to access and navigate websites. If time permits, students who wish to create e-mail accounts will have an opportunity to do so. (Students must have attended Introduction to Windows or be familiar with using the mouse and Windows.)

Thursday, April 21st
Searching the Internet and using E-mail.
This class will expand on the skills learned in Introduction to the Internet. (Students must have attended Introduction to the Internet or be familiar with the skills taught in that class.)

Courses at your library

Now that school is back in session, it's the perfect time to enhance your own education, and check out some of the new computer courses being offered at your Richmond Public Library. We're excited to offer a couple of FREE, fresh computer classes that will update you to new concepts and sharpen your Windows knowledge:

Email & Internet for Beginners

Prerequisite: Basic computer skills (mouse, keyboard) and basic Windows knowledge

When: 4:30PM - 6:00 PM - 3rd Tuesday of each month

Where: Main basement computer lab 

 Register: Main Library's 2nd Floor Computer Lab or call (804) 646-2551

Description: Learn your way around the Internet. Explore essential websites and practice sending emails. Instructor will help students sign up for an email account.

Using Windows XP

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computers OR you should have basic mouse and keyboard skills

When: 4:00PM - 6:00PM - 2nd Tuesday of each month

Where: Main basement computer lab

Register: Main Library's 2nd Floor Computer Lab or call (804) 646-2551

Description: Learn the basic skills you need to use the Windows XP operating system (Windows Operating system includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) Manage your tasks, find programs, and navigate Windows with ease.

Note: If you're wondering about the prerequisite requirements that indicate basic computer knowledge, or would just like to brush up on your skills, we would also recommend taking one of the two great basic computer classes below:

Basic Beginning Computer Class

When: 10:00AM every Friday

Where: Belmont Public Library

Register: (804) 646-1139

Description: Learn basic computer skills. For beginners only.

"Meet the Mouse" Adult Computer Class

When: 10:00 AM Wednesdays

Where: East End Library

Register: Limited class size: first come, first serve

 Description: Very basic instruction for the complete computer novice who doesn't like computers, has to learn to use one, and is ready to have some fun.

We look forward to seeing you in class!

Computer Classes

Basic Computer Classes for Seniors

Belmont Branch
Fridays, September 14 and 21
10:00 - 11:00am

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Do not be challenged by technology. Accept the challenge!

Beginning Computer Classes for Adults
Ginter Park Branch
Call 646-1236 to register.

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Tell us what computer skills you want to learn and we'll help!

Hull Street Branch
Call 646-8699 to register.

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Register for a hands-on introduction to PCs and the Internet. Space is limited - call 646-1877.

Computer Basics for Seniors
West End Branch
Tuesdays
10:30am

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Learn what you want to learn, at your own pace! First come, first served. NOTE: no class September 14.

Computer Classes for Seniors
Westover Hills Branch
Fridays
10:00am-12:00pm

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Main Library
Wednesdays
9:30am-11:00am

Sept. 5 ..... WORD 1 Basic
Sept. 12 ... WORD 2 Basic, continued
Sept. 19 ... WORD 3 Intermediate
Sept. 26 ... WORD 4 Intermediate, continued

Main Library
Monday evenings
7:00pm-8:30pm

Sept. 17 ... EMAIL 1 For the very beginner
Sept. 24 ... EMAIL 2 Attachments, address book, etc.

For classes at the MAIN Library, call 646-2551.

GED classes

GED classes are offered at the Broad Rock Branch on Wednesdays in June.

Broad Rock Branch
Wednesdays in June
6:00pm-8:00pm

Computer Classes

Do not be challenged by technology. Accept the challenge! Call 646-1236 to for more information and to register.

Beginning Computer Classes for Adults
Ginter Park Branch

Learn what you want to learn, at your own pace! First come, first served.

Computer Classes for Seniors
Westover Hills Branch
Fridays
10:00am-12:00pm

Register for a hands-on introduction to PCs and the Internet at the West End Branch. Space is limited - call 646-1877.

Computer Basics for Seniors
West End Branch
Tuesdays
10:30am

June 6: Word 3 - Using tools and graphics.
June 13: Word 4 - Continuing tools and graphics.
June 20: Excel Basic - Parts of Excel screen, navigating cell, and simple formulas.
June 27: Excel Basic, continued - Continuing with formulas and charts if time allows.

Main Library
Wednesdays
9:30am-11:30am

Register for classes at the Main Library by calling 646-2551. All classes are on Wednesdays from 9:30am-11:30am.

Computer Classes

Learn what you want to learn, at your own pace! First come, first served.

Computer Classes for Seniors

Westover Hills Branch

Fridays

10:00am-12:00pm

Register for a hands-on introduction to PCs and the Internet at the West End Branch. Space is limited - call 646-1877.

Computer Basics for Seniors

West End Branch

Tuesdays

10:30am

Main Library

Wednesdays

9:30am-11:30am

May 2: Email 1 - Learn how to set up an email account in yahoo.com.
May 9: Email 2 - Learn about the address book, calendars, and attachments.
May 16: Word 1 - Learn the basics of Word - parts of the screen, toolbars, and working with text.
May 23: Word 2 - Learn more about the basics and how to format text.

Register for classes at the Main Library by calling 646-2551. All classes are on Wednesdays from 9:30am-11:30am.

Computer Classes

Learn what you want to learn, at your own pace! First come, first served.

Computer Classes for Seniors

Westover Hills Branch

Fridays

10:00am-12:00pm

North Avenue Branch

Wednesdays

10:00am-11:00am

Do not be challenged by technology. Accept the challenge!

Ginter Park Branch

Beginning Computer Classes for Adults

call 646-1236

Intro to PCs, Internet, Email, Word, Excel

call 646-2551 to register

Main Library

Wednesdays

9:30am-11:30am

GED classes

GED classes are offered at the Broad Rock Branch on Wednesdays in March.

Broad Rock Branch

Wednesdays in March

6:00pm-8:00pm

Computer Classes for Seniors

Register for a hands-on introduction to PCs and the Internet. Space is limited.

Call 646-1877 to register.

West End Branch

Tuesdays in March

10:30am

At the Westover Hills Branch, learn what you want to learn, at your own pace!

First come, first served.

Westover Hills Branch

Fridays in March

10:00am-12:00pm

And classes for seniors are offered at the North Avenue Branch.

North Avenue Branch

Wednesdays in March

10:00am and 11:00am

Intermediate Spanish

Intermediate Spanish is offered on Wednesdays at the Broad Rock branch. Must register and must have some experience with Spanish.

Broad Rock Branch

Wednesdays in March

6:00pm-8:00pm