Computer Classes

Check the Calendar of Events or the library's newsletter (PDF) for registration dates. In-person or online registrations are preferred, but staff will take phone registrations as time permits.

Classes are limited to six patrons, and are held on Saturdays from 9-11am.

The following classes are offered at the library:

• Basic Skills in Windows XP: This class utilizes hands-on training and the mouse to perform basic functions. You will learn to use the mouse, launch programs, format copy files, create folders, rename files, and delete files and folders.
• Introduction to the Internet: Learn to navigate the web and perform searches by utilizing different search techniques and a variety of Internet sources. Learn how to create folders for saving URLs in Favorites.
• Microsoft Word: You need to be proficient in using the mouse before taking this class. Learn the basics of Word including how to create, save, edit and open documents. Learn more advanced editing techniques in Word including how to format paragraphs, lists, and text.
• Microsoft Excel: Learn to create and move about simple spreadsheets using basic formulas and formatting. Learn more advanced editing techniques in Excel including more advanced formulas, sorting and absolute references.
• Charts & Graphs in Microsoft Excel: Learn how to make charts and graphs in Excel. We recommend that the Beginners or Intermediate Excel course is taken first.
• Microsoft PowerPoint: Make dynamic presentations after discussing PowerPoint views, templates, working with slides, editing slides, inserting clip art, plus more.

Literacy Volunteers

Literacy Volunteers of Western Cook County is a not-for-profit agency that provides free tutoring services and literacy programs to adults in western Chicago and suburban Cook County through its network of trained volunteers. LVWCC frequently use the Forest Park Public Library for tutoring sessions. We have a few quiet rooms available for this purpose. For more information, call Diane Collins at 708-366-7171, ext. 112.

Homebound Delivery

For homebound patrons who cannot physically make it to the library, staff and/or volunteers will deliver and retrieve books on an as-needed basis. For more information, call Diane Collins at 708-366-7171, ext. 112.

Adult New Reader Collection

The library has a special collection of easy-to-read materials for adults who are seeking to improve their basic reading and writing skills. The collection called Adult New Reader has both fiction and non-fiction books on diverse topics written for adults learning to read and ESL students. The books are shelved before the 000s in the Nonfiction section.

Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired

The Forest Park Library offers many services for the blind and visually impaired. If you know someone who is blind or visually impaired, ask a Reference Librarian about the following:

• Readers to the Blind: The library has a list of volunteers that will read to the visually impaired and assist them with homework, etc. Contact us if you need a reader or would like to volunteer.
• Brailler for in-library use
• Telesensory machines for in-library use and available for check-out
• Audiobooks: Get a National Library Service for the Blind & Physically Handicapped form at the library and begin getting audiobooks delivered to your home.
• Low vision computer: The library has a computer reserved for those with vision problems. The screen resolution is set so that icons and Web pages appear much larger than average.

New Service: Described DVD Collection

The library now offers a selection of described DVDs, for patrons who have difficulty seeing their television screen. No special equipment is needed other than an ordinary DVD player.

• Professional narration explains film action by highlighting facial expressions, body language, scenery, etc. without interfering with dialogue
• Ask a librarian for details