The Washington Parish Library is starting a new group of computer classes in February, and they are free to anyone who would like to learn more about the modern technology.

The classes will be offered at both the Bogalusa branch and the Franklinton branch. Class size is limited, and pre-registration is required but there is no fee. Those who are interested in taking any class should call the Bogalusa library at 985-735-1961 or the Franklinton library at 985-839-7806.

Dawn Cambre, library associate and information technologies technician for the Washington Parish Library, said that the classes are designed for a variety of skill levels and ages.

“It’s something we do as an outreach program for the library,” she said. “We did it last year and had great feedback, and hopefully we’ll have the same success this year. I encourage anyone who is interested to come in and take the classes. It’s fun. A computer is the world at your fingertips.”

Cambre will teach the first three classes in the Bogalusa branch, which will be held on Monday, Feb. 6, Monday Feb. 13, and Monday, Feb. 20 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The final class of the month will be Thursday, Feb. 23, from 9 a.m. until noon, and Etta Magee will teach that class.

Cambre said that additional classes will be offered each month, through May.

Some of the subjects that will be discussed during the different classes include: four basic parts of the computer, how to use the mouse, operating systems (2007, 2008 and 2010), software (Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint), the internet (searching the web), email and a brief introduction to social media.

Cambre said that there is no requirement to attend one class before attending another, and also students can take as many or as few classes as they wish. The only request is to register and let the library know ahead of time if a student will attend, because space is limited.

“If you’re comfortable after finishing one class, then you can go on to the next,” she said. “Or, you can just take one class and be done. It’s all about the comfort level of the individual student. Nobody’s forced to take any class they don’t wish to take.”

Cambre said that the library supplies all computers and accompanying materials, so students do not need to bring anything else.

“You don’t need to bring anything but your eagerness,” she said.

Anyone who wishes to take any classes should sign up as soon as possible, because they fill quickly.

“You have to call the library and then come in to sign up,” Cambre said. “There is an application that you have to fill out, and then a questionnaire. Based on those answers, we can see how much computer knowledge you already have, and then suggest a class that’s a fit for your skill level. There are some who are better in the basic classes, and others who are better in the advanced classes.

“The important thing is that everyone should be comfortable using a computer. It’s such an important part of our lives, nowadays. Applications, filling out resumes — there are so many things that you have to do with a computer today.

“There are still a few people out there where computers might make them a little nervous, but they do have a desire to learn about them. We encourage them to come forward and learn.”