Computers
Online Resources
Des Plaines cardholders can access the variety of online resources below.
One-on-One Technology Help
If you have technology-related questions, feel free to contact us at help@dppl.org. A staff member will try to get back to you within 48 hours. Please make sure to include a valid email address and/or phone number.
Des Plaines Library offers free computer training classes aimed at helping seniors, and other adult learners gain basic computer skills. Check the calendar for our classes.
Adult Learning Center from HelpNow
Live one-on-one coaching to improve your computer skills on MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Also includes resume writing assistance and practice tests for the GED and U.S. Citizenship Test.
Gale Courses
Online courses on a wide range of topics including technology, computer applications, accounting, law, web design, healthcare and personal enrichment. Foreign language courses for Spanish, French, Italian & Japanese are also offered. New classes begin every month and last for six weeks. To get started, create an account with your Des Plaines library card. Certificates of completion are available for some courses.
LearningExpress Library
An easy-to-use online test prep resource that helps people improve their core academic skills, earn a high school equivalency, prepare for college, join the military, obtain occupational certification, change careers, become a U.S. citizen, learn basic computer skills and more.
Northstar Digital Literacy
Online assessments and lessons to help define and learn basic skills needed to perform tasks on computers and online. This site allows self-guided modules to learn digital literacy in essential computer skills (basic computer skills, internet basics, using email, Windows, and MacOS), essential software skills (Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Powerpoint, and Google Docs), and for using technology in daily life (social media, information literacy, career search skills, accessing your digital footprint, accessing telehealth appointments, and supporting K-12 Distance Learning).
Udemy: presented by Gale - On-Demand Learning for In-Demand Skills
Thousands of online video courses covering business, technology (Office, Windows, coding, etc.,) Test Prep (GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, IT Certifications & more) as well as personal development & foreign language instruction. Courses are available in several languages including Spanish & Polish. Watch this video to learn more To learn how to use the "Udemy for Business" app for iOS or Android click here
Universal Class
Access to over 500 video-based courses - everything from ABC's of Algebra to Yoga 101. First time users need to create an account. Once you're logged in you will have access to the course catalog and be able to start a class.