Genealogy Help

Get help with family history, for beginners and experts alike. | Central Library

By Appointment

Central Library |Online via Zoom or In-Person

Get help with genealogy questions! We can show you how to access the library’s and other genealogy resources, get started with your family history, or tackle a stumbling block on your existing project.

Call to make a phone appointment  – 413-263-6828 x395, ask for Gary, or email gpysznik@springfieldlibrary.org.

Participants will need access to the internet with a computer, tablet, or smartphone to participate on Zoom.

Free Computer Classes for Beginners

Hands-on workshops to build basic computer skills | Central Library | Adults

Computer Classes for Beginners

Do computers intimidate you? These classes are great for beginners. These are hands-on, relaxed courses that will help you get comfortable with computers, even if you’ve never used one before.

By the end of one of our courses, you will be ready to explore on your own. Registration is required to participate, but you do not have to attend all of the classes – feel free to try the first before thinking about the rest.

If you have any questions, you can call your local library to talk to a reference librarian. We can help you register for one of our classes or figure out where to start!


Computer Basics at Central Library

Central Library Computer Lab
Thursdays: Three sessions in series
July 11, 18, and 25 | 2:30 – 3:30 pm | Adults

Part 1: Getting Started
July 11 | 2:30 – 3:30 pm

Overwhelmed by computers? This class starts at the very beginning and will help you understand what a computer is and get comfortable with the basics. No experience is necessary!

Part 2: The Internet
July 18 | 2:30 – 3:30 pm

In this class, we will talk about the internet, how to use it, and learn some tips to make it easier to navigate. Basic keyboard and mouse skills are required.

Part 3: Search and Email
July 25 | 2:30 – 3:30 pm

In this class, we will talk about searching the internet, and email basics including how to send and receive messages online. Basic keyboard and mouse skills are required.

Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint at Sixteen Acres

Sixteen Acres Branch
July 9 and 23, August 6 and 20 at 6:30-7:30pm | Adults

Always wanted to learn more about common computer programs, but weren’t sure where to start? Join us in person for one or more sessions to learn about Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Basic computer skills (using a mouse, using a keyboard) are required. Ages 16+

Class 1 Microsoft Word: Design a poster for a business or event.
Class 2 Excel: Create a simple spreadsheet.
Class 3 PowerPoint: Create a simple five page PowerPoint.
Class 4 Review: Review what you’ve learned in previous sessions.

Visit our online calendar to register!

If you have any questions, you can call (413) 263-6858 to talk to a librarian.

Free Computer Resources

Free Citizenship Classes

The Read/Write/Now Center is accepting reservations for free citizenship classes.

Library Express at Pine Point

A new round of Free Citizenship Classes will be starting soon. The Read/Write/Now Center will provide the study materials and instructional support. Please call for more information at 413-263-6839.

These classes are brought to you with federal funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.