Free resources to help you learn or improve technology skills.
At Your Library
Need help with the Library’s digital resources or basic tech questions? We can help you by phone, by email, in person, or at a Library Basics Tech Coaching session. Additional online tutorials for software and computer programming are freely available to Bellingham Public Library cardholders via the Learning Resources page.
The Library offers 30 minute one-to-one Library Basics Tech Coaching sessions on:
- Wednesdays starting at 2:00 p.m. and ending by 4:00 p.m. at the Central Library
Pre-registration is required and sessions are designed to address a single issue and last for 30 minutes. This is not an ongoing class that follows a lesson plan. To register for a session, call the Help Desk at (360) 778-7323.
Staff can assist with:
- Downloading or streaming the Library’s ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, efilms, and emusic
- Basic computer, tablet, e-reader, or smartphone skills
- Setting up and using email
- Basic word processing and spreadsheet questions
- Library catalog and online resources
Staff cannot assist with:
- Hardware problems
- Recovering lost data, reconfigurations, or factory resets
- Managing or restoring hardware and/or software that is not current
- Intermediate or advanced learning on specific software or apps, please see the sections on Free Online Tech Help or our Learning Resources page
For a more structured learning experience explore the sections below on Free Online Tech Help, Free Community Tech Help for Job Seekers, or our Learning Resources page.
The following pages have links to the apps and help pages specific to the service.
Or send us a question using our Washington Anytime Library Help Form or by calling the Public Service Desk (360)778-7323.
Goodwill Job Training and Education Center
1115 E. Sunset Drive, Bellingham (360) 738-0483
Goodwill’s Job Training and Education Center offers free classes aimed at job readiness and computer classes on computing basics, keyboarding, and Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word.
GCF LearnFree
The Goodwill Community Foundation has created online tutorials to help you use new software, or brush up on skills you have previously learned. There are lessons on computer basics, internet searching, Microsoft Office products, social media, and setting up email accounts.
DigitalLearn
DigitalLearn is a great resource for beginners. If you are new to computers, haven’t used them in a while, or feel unsure or uncomfortable, check out their simple, short videos on computer and internet basics.
EveryoneOn
EveryoneOn is a nationwide campaign to get everyone on the internet. Use this site to discover discounted internet service and low cost computer offers in your area.
Techboomers
Techboomers introduces users to trusted websites and apps. They use videos and written tutorials in language suited to those who may not be the most tech-savvy. Learn what a particular website does, why you would want to use it, pros and cons, and then see step-by-step how to use it. Includes social, entertainment, shopping and educational sites.
TAG Reconnect
Organized by the Technology Alliance Group for Northwest Washington, Reconnect is a project of several local non-profits and government agencies to provide technology resources, training, and support to individuals.
C4PIN – Computers for People in Need
Bellingham non-profit that refurbishes donated computers for distribution at low cost to local people and non-profits. Visit their website or call (360) 920-2387.
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that replaces the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB Program) to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices. To apply, start at https://getemergencybroadband.org/how-to-apply/
EveryoneOn
EveryoneOn is a nationwide campaign to get everyone on the internet. Use this site to discover discounted internet service and low cost computer offers in your area.
Internet Essentials from Comcast
Low-cost internet service and computers for qualifying customers.
Free WiFi Finder
The Washington State Department of Commerce has a map showing places in Washington to access WiFi.
WiFi Hotspot Lending
Bellingham Public Library has WiFi hotspots you can checkout for free!
WWU Academic Technology and User Services: Keep Connected
Links to resources to help students and others keep connected to the internet.
Last updated November 18, 2024