These free, beginner-friendly resources will help you build confidence with computers, the internet, email, and everyday digital tasks. Whether you're turning on a computer for the first time or looking for affordable internet at home, these trusted resources (and your local library) can help.
Self-paced, beginner-friendly courses you can use on a library computer, a program laptop at your library, or your phone. No experience needed.
Free digital skills courses designed for beginners, including computer basics, internet safety, email, and more. Available in multiple languages.
Visit Site →Short, self-paced courses covering computer basics, using a mouse, browsing the web, and staying safe online. Great starting point for first-time computer users.
Visit Site →Hundreds of free lessons on computer basics, Microsoft Office, Google tools, typing practice, job searching, and more. Includes videos and interactive exercises.
Visit Site →Practice and test your digital skills across topics like using a computer, internet basics, email, Word, and Excel. Earn certificates to show what you've learned.
Visit Site →Free live online classes and articles designed for adults 60+, covering smartphones, video calling, online safety, telehealth, and more, taught at a comfortable pace.
Visit Site →Plain-language tutorials for popular websites and apps (Facebook, YouTube, Zoom, online shopping, and travel sites) with step-by-step screenshots.
Visit Site →Learn to spot scams, phishing emails, and identity theft. Practical guidance from the Federal Trade Commission on protecting yourself and your family online.
Visit Site →Completely free learning covering math, reading, science, and computing. Ideal if you want to brush up on foundational skills or learn something brand new. No account required to start.
Visit Site →Build your typing speed and accuracy with fun, free lessons. A great first step if you're new to using a keyboard.
Visit Site →Government guidance on staying safe online, protecting your personal information, recognizing scams, creating strong passwords, and more. Clear and easy to understand.
Visit Site →Try DigitalLearn.org. It starts from the very beginning and walks you through everything step by step. All you need is this laptop and a Wi-Fi connection!
Affordable home internet may be closer than you think. Start with these programs and tools.
The State of Illinois is expanding high-speed internet to every community through the Connect Illinois initiative. Find state programs, digital equity resources, and broadband expansion updates.
Visit Site →A federal program that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service for qualifying low-income households (for example, participants in SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI).
Visit Site →Many providers offer low-cost home internet plans for qualifying households — such as AT&T Access, Xfinity Internet Essentials, and Spectrum Internet Assist. Ask providers in your area what discounted plans they offer.
Visit Site →Enter your home address to see every internet provider and speed available at your location.
Visit Site →Your public library offers free Wi-Fi and public computers; and many libraries let you use Wi-Fi from the parking lot after hours. Through this statewide program, participating Illinois libraries also offer laptops for use in the library, plus classes and one-on-one help to build your skills. Ask at your local library's front desk.
Ask whether they participate in the Illinois Laptop Lending Program. All you typically need is a library card in good standing.
Libraries use these laptops to offer continuing education classes and personal tech help sessions. Bring your questions; staff will meet you where you are.
If the public computers are all in use, ask for a laptop. Each kit includes a modern laptop, mouse, and productivity software, ready to go.
When a laptop is returned, it automatically wipes back to a clean state; nothing you did on it is saved or visible to the next person.