Improve your computer and internet skills

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Library computers for users with disabilities

Surrey libraries has various items of equipment to assist those with disabilities to use computers. This equipment is described in detail, together with details of the libraries where it is available on the Library computers for users with disabilities page.

Help to get started using computers, tablets and smartphones

If you need support using computers and tablets and smartphones, we can help.

Make an appointment with one of our friendly Digital Buddies, who can offer free one to one support if you have specific computer problems. To find out more, please see our Digital Buddies web page or talk to a member of our library staff. Alternatively, contact the library service.

Examples of questions people are asking:

  • I want to buy groceries online but need help to know what to do.
  • How do I save a photo or add somebody to my contact list or forward an email?
  • How do I order my prescription online?
  • I'd like to download library books, magazines and audiobooks.
  • My computer keeps telling me it's not protected. What do I do?
  • I want to keep in touch with my relatives online, and they're using WhatsApp, or Skype, or Facetime, or Zoom.

Our service is delivered in person by library volunteers. It's confidential, safe, and free, and if you are an absolute beginner we will help you to use the Learn My Way website to develop your digital skills.

Digital welfare support

The Digital Welfare Support Project is a community outreach program that is closing the digital divide and reducing isolation in Surrey.

We aim to do this by identifying and targeting areas of the county where digital deprivation is highest, cultivating community links and providing IT skills sessions to those most in need. Our experienced and dedicated Digital Welfare Support Officers are putting together a programme of events and opportunities to offer foundational knowledge of essential digital skills.

See our events and activities page for details of upcoming events.

Book a computer

You can book a computer in one of our libraries in advance by using our Computer booking system.

Free wifi

WiFi is now available in all Surrey libraries and the Surrey History Centre, find your nearest library. You can log onto the internet using your WiFi enabled device, such as a laptop, iPad or smart phone. People who are not library members can use the service for half an hour, and Surrey residents are able to join online. Most libraries have identified electrical points that can be used for laptops.

Print from your own device

You can now print documents from your own device such as a laptop or mobile phone.

Log in to the Computer booking system, using your library card number and PIN, and follow the instructions.

Once submitted, your files will be securely processed and prepared for printing within the next few minutes.

You can then pay for and collect your print jobs at one of the self service kiosks or by speaking to a member of staff in your nearest library.

Your print job will then be available for the next 3 hours. Printing charges apply and are paid at point of collection.

Please note that this service is not available at the following libraries: Bagshot, Bramley Byfleet, Ewell Court, Lingfield, New Haw, Stoneleigh, Tattenhams, Virginia Water and Warlingham libraries.

Free internet courses

Surrey Adult Learning

Surrey Adult Learning, run by Surrey County Council, provides free business, employability and digital skills courses for beginners and those with limited experience wanting to develop their skills on various digital devices. They are suitable for all ages, whether you are looking to retrain for work or are retired and want to be able to access information, communicate with friends and family or do your shopping.

Learn My WayLearn my way logo

We recommend the free courses provided by the Good Things Foundation through the Learn My Way website.

This has been set up to give a range of easy courses. These range from using a mouse and keyboard or touchscreen to managing your money and health online.

All these courses are free, using the Surrey Libraries code: Surrey Libraries (8002762). By creating an account you can track your progress. You can do these courses yourself either in the library or at home.

If you are unsure how to sign up, please watch our video: Surrey Libraries Learn my Way Registration Instructions.

Sign up on the Learn My Way website.

More advanced computer courses

Finding a job

Naturally Talented Me is a free to use website to help people to find jobs, work, and career opportunities by matching their talents and skills as defined by their hobbies and interests to jobs in Surrey.

You'll input some things about you, and a SeeMe portfolio will be generated, this is the alternative to a traditional CV, not based on qualifications and education but about what interests you.

You may have health issues, or a disability or caring responsibilities that can be taken into consideration when matching you to the right job opportunity that's suited to you.

It's about uncovering your natural talents to open more doors for you to getting a job.

Find out more about Naturally Talented Me

Adult learning centres

If you already have basic computer and internet skills and wish to learn more you could check out our adult learning service.

Every term they have over 1000 courses on offer in Guildford, Camberley, Farnham, Esher, Sunbury, Molesey and Woking on a huge range of subjects. To find the right one for you, please search for a course.

Courses in Epsom and Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate and Banstead and Tandridge are provided by East Surrey College.

The following local colleges also provide excellent taught courses, in computers and much more besides:

Video showing how to register for Learn My Way

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