When used in tandem with scrutiny and fact-checking, AI and chatbots can be powerful tools for finding information. In this class, learn practical tips and resources for evaluating AI-generated outputs to ensure reliability. We’ll also discuss strategies to defend against AI “hallucinations,” where fact and fiction are conflated. Join us in Brooks Place to empower yourself with the skills needed to navigate, verify, and confidently use information in the age of AI!
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Anyone Can Fact Check
LinkedIn Learning
AI Explained
Learn to utilize our digital library resources in this beginner-friendly class! Our expert librarians will walk participants through the process of downloading our digital library apps onto their devices, highlighting each app's offerings, including ebooks, audiobooks, movies, television shows, and music. At the end of the class, enjoy complete access to The Westport Library's digital resource collection!
Information and Materials Needed:
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Anyone Can Use
Get the Right Book for You
Digital Collection
Registration for this session will begin on March 26.
Are you a Mac user in a PC world? Or are you a PC user that just can’t figure out how to make the Mac work for you? In this workshop, attendees will learn how to navigate the Windows AND Mac Operating systems. From the Windows task manager to the Mac Dock, you will learn to find and manage files and folders, save and delete files, and more.
This Anyone Can Use class is made possible through a generous grant from AT&T, in collaboration with The Public Library Association.
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Anyone Can Use
LinkedIn Learning
Cybersecurity
Registration for this session will begin on February 26, 2025.
Join us for our Anyone Can Use Libby class on March 19 at 11 am in Brooks Place, where you'll discover how to unlock the full potential of Libby! This interactive session is designed for library patrons of all ages and experience levels. Learn how to easily borrow eBooks and audiobooks from your library's digital collection—all you need is your library card!
In this class, we'll cover:
Whether you're new to digital reading or just want to brush up on your skills, this class will help you become a confident Libby user. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the world of digital reading with us!
*** To follow along and participate, patrons must bring your own device; a Kindle or smart device with the Libby app installed on your device prior to class:
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Novelist
Binge-Worthy Book Series
Celebrity Book Club Picks
Digital Collection
Registration for this session will begin on March 12, 2025.
Ready to ditch cable TV? Join us for Anyone Can Cut the Cord to Cable on April 2 at 11 am in Brooks Place. This one-hour class will explore the many streaming services and devices available as cable alternatives. Learn about your options to make the best decisions for you!
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Hoopla
Kanopy
Digital Collection
Registration for this session will begin on February 12, 2025.
Join Morningstar representative Emily Thoms on March 5 at 11 am in Brooks Place for an illuminating session on Morningstar Investing Center, a powerful library database designed to transform your investment journey. This comprehensive tool provides access to an extensive array of resources, including over 14,500 stocks, 24,800 mutual funds, and 1,500 exchange-traded funds (ETFs), ensuring that whether you're a novice investor or a seasoned financial strategist, you have the in-depth analysis and dynamic resources you need to make informed investment decisions.
Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the potential of your financial future! Learn how to navigate investments with confidence and precision using Morningstar's cutting-edge research platform, complete with expert analyst insights that inform your investment strategies.
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Anyone Can Use
Getting Started with Databases
Investing 101
Join us on February 5 at 11 am in Brooks Place for an informative session on securing funding for your nonprofit organization. Led by Candid network engagement manager Tracy Kaufman, this workshop will focus on maximizing your use of the Foundation Directory, the leading prospect research tool for fundraisers, featuring over 307,000 grant-maker profiles.
This session will provide effective strategies for identifying grant-makers who have previously supported organizations with missions similar to yours. Whether you are new to the Foundation Directory or a seasoned user, this session will provide valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your grant-seeking efforts.
Don't miss this opportunity to empower your nonprofit with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in today's competitive funding landscape.
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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Tracy Kaufman is a Network Engagement Manager at Candid, leading workshops related to nonprofit sustainability, management, fundraising, and other essential issues relevant to philanthropy and the social sector. Her trainings primarily serve nonprofit professionals, but also audiences comprised of funders, artists, students, and academics. Tracy is a lead instructor for Candid’s three-day Proposal Writing Boot Camp and teaches a popular workshop on outcomes and measurement. As one of Candid’s training experts, webinar instructors, and a frequent public speaker, she has spoken at conferences, most notably the United Nations, and has represented Candid on numerous panel discussions.
In addition, Tracy provides training and support to Funding Information Network (FIN) partners – libraries, nonprofit resource centers and other institutions – and provides philanthropy and fundraising information services to individuals and local organizations. Her relationship with Candid began in 2007, when she began working for Foundation Center, one of Candid’s two legacy organizations. Previously, Tracy held positions with the Association of American Publishers and New York Public Library. Tracy earned her Bachelors of Arts in Writing Seminars from John Hopkins University, and studied Library and Information Science at the Pratt Institute.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Anyone Can Use
Getting Started with Databases
Crowdfunding
Registration for this session will begin on January 29, 2025.
Enhance your digital marketing strategy and elevate your brand's online presence by joining Ashley, the Library's resident social media expert, on February 19 at 11 am in Brooks Place for a hands-on workshop exploring the nuances of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, along with cutting-edge creator tools including Canva, CapCut, and ChatGPT.
*** To follow along and participate, patrons must bring your own device and have the following apps installed on your device prior to class:
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
LinkedIn Learning
Anyone Can Use Canva
Anyone Can Use Instagram
Anyone Can Use X (formerly Twitter)
In this Google Slides class on Wednesday, December 18 at 11 am in Brooks Place, we'll explore the essential tools and features that will empower you to create effective presentations for any purpose — whether for work, school, or personal projects.
We'll start with the basics, guiding you through the processes of navigating the software, creating and organizing slides, and adding text and images. As we progress, you'll learn how to enhance your presentations with design tips, transitions, and animations that make your slides more engaging. By the end of the class, you'll be confident in your ability to create striking, professional presentations that effectively communicate your ideas.
Bring your own laptop or reserve one with your ticket.
Registration for this in-person class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Heritage Quest
Ancestry Library
Genealogy Resources
Elevate your personal and professional skills with LinkedIn Learning, a dynamic online learning platform available for free through your Westport Library card. Join us for Anyone Can Use: LinkedIn Learning on Wednesday, December 4 from 11 am to 12 pm in Brooks Place.
Offering a vast library of more than 16,000 expert-led courses, LinkedIn Learning covers a wide range of topics including business, technology, and creative skills. Whether you're looking to advance your career, learn a new software, or explore a creative passion, you'll find high-quality, up-to-date content to suit your needs. Courses are available in various formats, including video tutorials, exercise files, and quizzes, allowing you to learn at your own pace and style. Offering certifications upon completion, new courses added weekly, and the ability to access content on desktop or mobile devices, LinkedIn Learning provides a flexible and powerful tool for lifelong learning. Simply log in through the Westport Library website with your library card to start boosting your skills today!
Bring your own laptop or reserve one with your ticket.
Registration for this class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Education Databases
Technology Resources
Anyone can use Resources
Join us on Wednesday, November 20 from 11 am to 12 pm in Brooks Place to find out how you can expand your linguistic horizons with Pronunciator, a comprehensive language learning platform available for free through your Westport Library card.
This versatile tool offers access to more than 160 languages. Featuring interactive lessons, pronunciation practice with native speakers, quizzes, and progress tracking, beginners and advanced learners alike can achieve their language goals at their own pace. Whether you're preparing for a trip, enhancing your professional skills, or you're simply passionate about languages, Pronunciator provides a rich learning experience with vocabulary builders, audio lessons, and cultural notes. Available on both desktop and mobile devices, it's perfect for learning on the go.
Bring your own device (laptop, tablet, or phone) or borrow one of our laptops!
Registration for this class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
Pronunciator
Language Learning Resources
ESL Resources
Unlock the secrets of your family's past at our exciting Anyone Can Use: Genealogy Resources workshop on Wednesday, November 6 from 11 am to 12 pm in Brooks Place!
Dive into a world of hidden histories as we guide you through The Westport Library's treasure trove of genealogical resources. Discover how to use Ancestry (Library Edition), Heritage Quest Online, Family Search, and Historical Newspapers – all free with your library card! You'll learn to unearth long-lost relatives, solve family mysteries, and find your place in history. Don't miss this thrilling opportunity to crack the code of your family tree.
Bring your own laptop or reserve one with your ticket.
Registration for this class is required.
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The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider giving to the Library so that we can continue to offer events like this one. Your donation is tax deductible. Donate Now!
