Library offering technology class

The Lake County Library system is offering a free class to help residents stay in touch with their family members by using technology. The class will be online through Zoom on April 23 beginning at 1 p.m. Participants will learn more about apps such as Facetime, Skype and Zoom that they can use to stay connected with friends and family. The class will end with a question-and-answer session.

Members of the public can register for free by calling the Lake County Library at 263-8817.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the class is offered over Zoom. If anyone needs help getting started with Zoom they can call the Lakeport Library and Amy Patton will be happy to get your started over the phone. Learning to use new technology can be daunting at first, but Patton will help make it easy. Anyone who needs assistance can reach Amy by calling 263-8817 extension 17105.

Even if residents don’t have their own device to attend the class, the library can help. All branches of the Lake County Library have Google Chromebooks that can be borrowed with a library card. Chromebooks are small laptop computers that can be used to browse the internet and are very easy to use. Anyone can use the library’s Wi-Fi from the parking lot to attend the class.

The library is working with Teens Teach Technology, a youth organization dedicated to helping seniors and adults learn about technology. The group, based on Long Island, provides online lessons on using technology, from iPhones to computers. They are partnering with libraries to offer their services.

Learning to use technology to better communicate with friends and family is an important skill. While a simple phone call can help people stay in touch, using video apps like Facetime or Zoom can really enhance social interaction. These skills can also be used for video visits with healthcare or to visit distant relatives without the need to travel.

Learn more about the Lake County Library on their website at http://library.lakecountyca.gov.