By Amy Hofmockel, Creative Technology Librarian When using apps and programs it can sometimes be hard to figure out how to access the menu. It can seem like the icons you need to tap to open the menu are constantly changing, even between app updates! While apps are always updating, some basics will stay the same. … Read more
By Amelia, Digital Learning Specialist Have you ever wondered what the letters “URL” mean or seen the phrase “follow this link for more information”? Maybe you’ve seen a URL or a website link in advertisements or on event flyers, product information, or even the news. In this Tech Tip, we’ll cover what URLs are and … Read more
By Rose Barnes, Health & Senior Services Librarian Are you thinking about buying a new car, appliance, gadget, or literally anything else, but feeling overwhelmed or not sure where to start? Consumer Reports is designed to help you navigate all of the options and narrow down products based on consumer tests and reviews. Their goal … Read more
By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology Interested in a convenient way to read newspapers on your phone? With access to more than 7,000 publications from around the world in their original language and format, PressReader is a helpful tool. This post will cover some basics that will help you get started with PressReader. Here are five … Read more
By Amy Hofmockel, Creative Technology Librarian It’s so important to create strong passwords—and frequently update them—even though most websites have security measures in place to keep your personal information private. Let’s go over a few of the most basic—but most important—ways to keep your digital data safe, starting with how to: 7 steps to a … Read more
By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology Your Oak Park Public Library card gives you access to thousands of digital newspapers and magazines. Different streaming apps like PressReader, Flipster, and Libby all provide access to digital newspapers and magazines. So what is the best way to start when you’re looking for your favorites? 1. Is it a … Read more
By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology You have likely used the copy and paste functions to move text on your computer, within a document or email, or from one application to another. (If you haven’t, check out these copy and paste shortcut instructions you can use on your computer.) But how do you complete … Read more
By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology In today’s media landscape, it can be challenging to sort through the constant flow of information and evaluate the accuracy of news articles and social media posts. The fast pace, sensational headlines, and frequent layout changes of social media can make it challenging to assess what you are reading. These … Read more
By Amy Hofmockel, Creative Technology Librarian Looking for one-on-one help with a specific digital learning or technical topic? Sign up for an in-person Learning Lab appointment—available at all three library locations—and get a focused 30-minute session with a Learning Lab instructor. You can request an appointment by filling out our Learning Lab Appointment Request form, but before … Read more
By Amy Hofmockel, Creative Technology Librarian Using a mouse seems simple, but did you know there are shortcuts built into many computer mice? In this post, you’ll discover the different parts of the mouse, how to use the mouse, and what the mouse can do. Anatomy of a computer mouse What do the buttons do? … Read more
