Boomers & Beyond: Seniors join the digital world

Published 5:01 am Monday, January 16, 2017

Editor’s Note: This is the second in a new Monday series focusing on Baby Boomers and senior citizens.

Armed with cookies, coffee and knowledge of all things digital, library associates hosted a Digital Device Help session Thursday at Sulphur Regional Library.

The class is part of a slate of offerings at Calcasieu Parish libraries focused on computer literacy and digital skills, particularly for seniors.

The Digital Device Help session functioned as an open house, offering attendees one-on-one help with their phones, tablets and computers.

Dolores McCormick brought her Android phone, which she typically reserves for emergencies. McCormick, a retired accountant, was skilled with computers during her career, but losing her workplace’s resources has made navigating the digital world more difficult.

During the session, library associate Kimberly Cascio helped her download several apps and access a coupon for Hobby Lobby.

“We want the public to be able to access digital resources and use the tools to get what they want in life,” Cascio said.

Those with more questions can also schedule an appointment for device help through the Book a Librarian service, offered at both Central and Sulphur Regional libraries.

During past appointments, librarians have trained people to use phones, set up Wii systems and Xboxes, and even transfer VHS tape material to DVDs. They also explain how to use the library’s own digital resources, like borrowing ebooks, digital music and movie files online.

Librarian bookings typically pick up after the holidays, as people struggle with devices they received as gifts, said Megan Yarbrough, programming supervisor at Central Library.

Those looking for more formal courses can attend the four-session computer basics class at Epps Memorial Library. Branch manager Felicia Oliver teaches computer setup, Web browsing and email and caters content to students’ questions. Attendees can visit one or all four of the monthly sessions, which start at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21.

For social media training, Central Library will offer a Facebook class on Feb. 6 covering profile setup, chat and photo uploads, among other topics. And a May 6 Internet security session will teach seniors to safely use email, banking services and other online accounts.

“The world is increasingly digital, from communication to information delivery to just having fun,” Yarbrough said. “Seniors benefit from technology. The world is at their fingertips.”

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To register for classes or book a librarian, call 721-7116 or visit www.calcasieulibrary.org.

Class calendar

Computer Basics — 10:30 a.m. Jan. 21, Feb. 18, March 11 and April 8, Epps Memorial Library.

Facebook for Personal Use — 10 a.m. Feb. 6, Central Library.

Introduction to Microsoft Word 7 — noon Feb. 6, Epps Memorial Library.

Internet Security — 10 a.m. May 1, Central Library.