Tech Tips: Tech Tips: How to close, minimize & maximize windows on a computer

Windows browser screen

By Digital Learning Specialist Amelia Ever wondered what the buttons do at the top of your browser bar? Let’s find out! Whether you’re on a PC or a Mac, you’ll encounter a similar set of buttons or icons. These buttons or icons are called “window controls” or “window buttons” and can help you navigate between … Read more

Tech Tips: How to listen to audiobooks in Libby

Screenshot of audiobook player on Libby app

By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology In an earlier Tech Tips post, I shared tips and tricks on how to read ebooks and digital magazines on Libby with your smartphone or tablet. But did you know you also can listen to thousands of digital audiobooks on the Libby app too? Let’s get started! First, let’s discuss … Read more

Tech Tips: How to read ebooks & magazines in Libby

Screenshot of magazines available on Libby app

By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology Did you know that as an Oak Park Public Library cardholder you can access tens of thousands of ebooks and digital audiobooks, and thousands of digital magazines on your smartphone or tablet? In this series of Tech Tips posts, I’ll be sharing tips and tricks on how to do just … Read more

The Affordable Connectivity Program is winding down: Here’s what you need to know

Affordable Connectivity Program: ACP Wind-Down

By Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology John Gargiulo A federally funded benefit program, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has offered a monthly benefit to eligible households to help with affordable access to internet services since 2021. Now, the future of the program is uncertain. Without urgent congressional funding, the ACP will run out of funds. The funds are … Read more

Tech Tips: How to declutter your devices in 4 steps

A computer desktop cluttered with files

By Creative Technology Librarian Amy Hofmockel Do you have a desktop covered in icons you don’t use? Are you interested in decluttering your digital workspace? Let’s go over some basics of file management so you can find the files you want when you want them. First, what is file management? Just like you might have papers … Read more

Tech Tips: How to use Creativebug

Creativebug logo on top of a table with a floral watercolor and painting supplies

By Health & Senior Services Librarian Rose Barnes Whether you are new to crafting or a seasoned master crafter, there is something for everyone on Creativebug.  An inspirational resource for DIY, crafters, and makers, Creativebug features more than 1,000 award-winning art and craft video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. You can take … Read more

Tech Tips: How to scan a QR code (plus, how to print from a smartphone at the library)

Printing sign with QR code sitting in front of printers at the Main Library

By Digital Learning Specialist Amelia You probably have seen them somewhere by now, black and white square or circular barcode images—known as QR codes (short for Quick Response codes)—on contactless menus, advertisements, and even as a form of payment around the world. But what are QR codes? These barcode images are readable by digital devices—like … Read more

Access news online for free with your library card

Robert Kelly and grandsons sit in chairs in the Main Library Children's Area

When Robert Kelly (pictured above with his grandsons) was working in the software industry, he subscribed widely to magazines and newspapers from around the country. “I like to be able to read a lot,” he told us. “Because there’s so much going on in the world, I like to have a variety of opinions.” After … Read more

Tech Tips: How to use the scanner at the library

Scan station at the library

By Health & Senior Services Librarian Rose Barnes Did you know? You can scan documents for free at any Oak Park library location. Scan equipment is available on the Main Library’s third floor and at the Maze and Dole branches. Using the scanner, you can send your scan to copy (print), fax, email, save to … Read more