Finding information is a skill that the Oak Park Public Library believes is important in every person's life. One tool that is often used for finding information is the computer, however many people do not feel comfortable using computers to find information. Because we understand the challenges involved in learning to find information with a computer, the Oak Park Public Library is committed to teaching the public how to use the information gathering tools it provides. In 1999 the Library began a new computer instruction program that has grown to include the following classes available to Oak Park Public Library cardholders.

For more information Ask A Librarian.

Basic Computer Skills for Beginners: A Preparation for Using the Internet
This class is for beginners who have not used computers before. Participants will take a mouse tutorial. Topics covered include the mouse, clicking and double clicking, opening a browser, highlighting, scrolling and dragging. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480. Online version of class.

Beyond the Basics of the World Wide Web
Move beyond the topics covered in the Introduction to the World Wide Web. Topics include email, advanced finding tools, evaluating the accuracy of World Wide Web pages, and demonstration of useful websites. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Buying on eBay
Learn the basics of searching for auction items, placing a bid, and finally purchasing an item on eBay. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Finding Newspaper and Journal Articles and Even Transcripts
Learn how to find newspaper articles, journal articles, and even transcripts using the online tools available through the Oak Park Public Library. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Genealogy on the World Wide Web
This beginners level class will focus on finding genealogical information on the Internet. Emphasis will be on exploring the best free sites and databases available for genealogical research. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Google and More
Explore some of Google’s most popular features such as news, images, and maps as well as some of its special features, including dictionary, translator, books, scholar, documents, and more. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Hidden Treasures of the Library's Website
In this class you will discover many precious gems from the Oak Park Public Library's website! Perhaps you didn't know that Oak Park residents can access Consumer Reports and many more magazines in full-text from the Library's website. Besides seeing what books we have, you can find out who your federal, state, county, and local public officials are and which congressional district you live in. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Introduction to the World Wide Web
Get a basic introduction to the World Wide Web and how it works, including some information on searching and getting an electronic mail account. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480. Online version of class.

The Invisible Web
In this class you will learn about the "Invisible Web." Topics covered in this class are: 1) reasons that search engines can't "see" and index the information hidden in the Invisible Web, 2) where to find this hidden information, 3) how to narrow your search to find good quality information. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Morningstar Library Edition
Learn to use the many tools and features that Morningstar.com Library Edition offers. This includes searching for mutual funds and stocks, finding star ratings, and creation and management of financial portfolios. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Online Tools @ Your Fingertips
Learn to search newspapers, magazines, and more with online tools available at the Library. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.

Public Records Database
Learn how to use the Public Records database, which includes searchable information from public county records of New Homeowners, New Businesses, Bankruptcies, and Foreclosures and Sales in Cook County and surrounding Illinois counties. Records and information are customizable and may be printed, emailed, or downloaded from home or at the Library. Class available quarterly. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or by calling 708-452-3480.

Take a Trip Online
Discover a variety of ways to find travel information online. Coverage includes basic searching of online travel guides, purchasing tickets and making reservations online, and learning to use mapping sites. Dates and times of classes that are currently scheduled can be found on the Calendar of Events. Registration is required. Sign up at the Information Services Desk or call 708-452-3480.