Free introductory computer courses will soon be offered at four Briggs Lawrence County Public Library locations.

Each class is comprised of two three-hour courses designed for those who have very little to no experience with computers.

“These classes are for beginners,” Diana Poling, administrative assistant with the Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development, said. “It starts with learning how to turn on the computer and how to use the mouse and keyboard. After they become familiar with the computer itself, the class then teaches them how to get online.”

Poling said there are too many people out there who have never touched a computer, and a lot of them are being told by their families they need to do so. She said the main reason is for those who may not be able to get out as they once did to keep in touch with friends and family through chat and email.

Another advantage of getting more people on computers and online is the benefit to the community as a whole, Joe Jenkins, director of Briggs, said.

“People getting experience with computers and overcoming their apprehension about them and the Internet, highlights another goal to increase people’s desire to have Internet access in their homes,” Jenkins said. “Not every area in Lawrence County has high-speed Internet access and I think the more accustomed people become to using computers and utilizing the Internet, the more people who will stand up and say ‘Hey, we need this’ and hopefully increase the area in our county covered by high-speed Internet.”

Jenkins said the classes are not only for senior citizens seeking to stay connected with friends and family and conduct online shopping, but also to older individuals starting new careers who need to fill out an online application. The classes can also help parents who have difficulties connect with what their children are learning in school.

All interested adults are invited to participate in the class, but seating is limited. Those seeking to register can contact COAD at 1-800-807-9781.

The following is the schedule of courses:

Proctorville Branch Library, 410 Elizabeth St., 740-886-6697

• Computer Basics: Wednesday, June 26, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• Internet Introduction: Thursday, June 27, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Chesapeake Library, 11054 County Road 1, 740-867-3390

• Computer Basics: Tuesday, July 9, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• Internet Introduction: Wednesday, July 10, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

South Point Library, 317 Solida Road, 740-377-2288

• Computer Basics: Thursday, July 25, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• Internet Introduction: Friday, July 26, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Ironton Library, 321 South Fourth St., 740-532-1124

• Computer Basics: Tuesday, July 30, 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• Internet Introduction: Wednesday, July 31, 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.