Computer Resources

Books

Visit the 004-006 section on the Ground floor for books for beginners through advanced users.

Tutorials

• Basic Computer Skills – A computer instruction web site with explanation of terms, step by step instructions, and pictures.
• Computer/Internet Tutorials – A list of online tutorials compiled by the Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County (AL)
• Finding Information on the Internet: a Tutorial – A guide to using search engines, subject directories, and evaluating web sites from UC Berkeley.
• Microsoft Office Online – Self-paced tutorials for Microsoft Office products.
• Mousercise – Practice using the mouse.
• New User Tutorial – A self-paced tutorial for new computer users, including using the mouse, from the Palm Beach County Library System.
• Senior's Guide to Computers – Straightforward information about computers including the basics, accessibility, backing up your data, the internet, security, email, hardware, and software.

Buying a Computer

• Computer Buying Guide – Buying advice, shopping tips, and brand information from Consumer Reports.
• For computer ratings, visit the library to access print copies of Consumer Reports, or search InfoTrac OneFile with your library card to access this magazine online.
• CNET buying suggestions, reviews, and news for PCs and Macs:
  • Desktops
  • Laptops
• Pricewatch - A search engine that allows retailers to advertise their prices in real time.

Companies

Company web sites for product information, service, and technical support.

• Acer
• Mac
• Compaq
• Dell
• Hewlett-Packard (HP)
• Lenovo
• Sony
• Toshiba

Online Magazines

Visit the library for print computer magazines, or search our online databases for computer articles.

• Computerworld
• Dr. Dobb's Journal
• InformationWeek
• InfoWorld
• Macworld
• PC Magazine
• PC World

Reviews

• CNET - Expert and unbiased advice on technology products and services to inform users and expedite purchasing.
• ESRB – An independent, non-profit organization that has product reviews and rating systems for computer and video games.
• PCWorld.com - Includes hardware and software reviews.
• Reviewboard Magazine - A web magazine that reviews computers in "plain English".
• Tom's Hardware Guide -The Internet's premier resource for PC hardware reviews and news.
• ZDNET Reviews

Viruses 

• Purportal.com - "Search before you forward" that latest rumor on the web. In addition to direct searches of various hoax and virus info sites, it includes current related news stories about hoaxes and rumors.
• Symantec Security Response - Up-to-date information on computer virus threats and security advisories.