Tech Help
Technology is constantly changing and improving to meet our needs, but it can be hard to keep up.
The Reference Desk is always open to patrons looking for some basic tech assistance and instruction. We also have programs to help get our patrons feeling confident about using their technology through our Technology Works programs and One-on-One appointments.
Tech Training
Monthly presentations on a tech topic – it could be instructive (how to get the most out of Excel), explaining a tech trend (what Bitcoin is all about), or general tech information (the basics of computer lingo). Check out our calendar for upcoming tech programs.
Our reference staff works with patrons individually to help with specific problems (like creating a resume, troubleshooting unusual errors) or for more general topics (learning Microsoft Word, basic introduction to the internet). Appointments are made for a maximum of one hour. We will work with you to accomplish as much as we can together and we can always make another appointment with you, if needed. Make an appointment by emailing email hidden; JavaScript is required or calling 978-256-5521 x1211.
Call us or stop by the Reference Desk on the lower level of the library any time for in-person help! Drop-ins are great for quick tech questions (like email assistance and smartphone trouble) where we can help fix the issue or get you on the right track to finding the correct solution. If we feel the issue may need some further time to work out, the reference staff can schedule you with a One-on-One appointment instead.
Online Tutorials
- Chelmsford Library's Tech Academy – Short tutorials on technology basics, such as instruction on computer applications like excel and popular social media apps like Instagram and Facebook.
- GCFGlobal - Simple and visual tutorials on everything from email to typing to internet safety.
Helpful Resources
- Common Scams that Target the Elderly – From SeniorLiving.com, this is a list of examples and explanations of how scams work and ways to protect against them.
- Common Sense Media – Reviews of apps, movies and games for children
Contact Us!
If you need help with tech questions, our Reference Staff can help! We offer both Tech Training sessions each month, and One-on-One appointments at your convenience. Call us at 978-256-5521 x1211 for details.
Tech Tip: You can increase text size on most websites very easily. On the keyboard…
| Hold Down | Press | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Ctrl | + | Makes text bigger |
| Ctrl | – | Makes text smaller |
| Ctrl | 0 | Restores text to default size |
| Note: Pressing + more than once will continue to make text bigger | ||