Learning Centres
Learning Centres (IT suites) are available in all Angus libraries for library members and visitors to use for education and training, research, formal learning, preparing documents and social networking. This is part of Angus Council's commitment to Lifelong Learning.
Learning Centre pcs provide access to a range of software including Microsoft Office applications as well as free Internet and web-based e-mail. In addition, all Learning Centre users can access a range of online information resources through the Online Library Catalogue.
Flexible IT training is available in our Learning Centres. We offer courses from beginner computer classes to Advanced European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) modules. Contact your local library to find out more.
Use of the Learning Centres and their facilities is FREE for all registered Learning Centre members and visitors. There is a charge for some additional services such as printing - see the Cultural Services Charges sheet (40 KB PDF) Opens in a new window 
for details. Some IT training courses also attract a charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What facilities do you have in the Learning Centres?
A range of Microsoft Office applications, including MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint and MS Publisher, is available in all Library Learning Centres. Use our computers to type letters, update your CV, make a poster or invitation for an event, keep accounting records or create a business presentation.
You can bring in your own portable storage device to use on any Learning Centre pc. However, we cannot guarantee that all devices will be compatible with our computers.
All libraries have flatbed scanners and all the computers are linked to a colour laser-jet printer. Charges for printing apply - see the Cultural Services Charges sheet (40 KB PDF) Opens in a new window for details.
All computers also offer free access to the internet and to web-based email.
Contact your local library for more information.
Please note that internet access is filtered and monitored to ensure compliance with Angus Council's current Contract of Acceptable Use of Computers. This policy is displayed in all Learning Centres and onscreen during log in.
Do I have to be a library member to use a computer?
Library members automatically have membership to use the Learning Centres. According to the Management Rules for Cultural Facilities, a library membership card must be produced to staff before a member can use a computer.
Residents of Angus who are not library members are encouraged to join the Library. Residents who do not wish to join the Library may use the Learning Centre on production of identification with their name and signature.
Visitors to Angus who wish to use the Learning Centre must show identification with their name and signature.
All users must agree abide by Angus Council's current Contract of Acceptable Use of Computers displayed in all Learning Centres and onscreen during log in.
Do I have to book to use a computer?
It is sometimes possible to use the Learning Centre on a drop-in basis if a computer is available.
However, our Learning Centres are sometimes busy and you may prefer to book a time to use a computer if you are able to plan ahead. Contact your local library to reserve a session.
All Learning Centre users must check in with staff at the library counter before each pc session.
Can I use your computers to check my email or Facebook account?
Yes. You can generally access your web-based email account.
Facebook is also available as part of our free internet access.
How much does it cost?
It is FREE to use a Learning Centre computer.
Charges for printing apply - see the Cultural Services Charges sheet (40 KB PDF) Opens in a new window for details.
Charges also apply for some IT training courses.
Do you offer help or training for people who are new to computers?
Yes. We offer FREE Computer Taster Sessions for beginners in each library. These sessions of 2 x 1½ hours are tutored by library staff in small, relaxed groups in our Learning Centres. Please contact your local library for details of their next class.
If you can already use the keyboard and mouse, you may be interested in some of our other classes such as our Angus Libraries' "First Steps" series, the British Computer Society's "Online Basics" or the "European Computer Driving Licence" (ECDL). Courses accredited by the SQA or British Computer Society are an excellent way to enhance your employability skills and ILA Scotland funding is often available to cover the course cost.
If you would like to know more about IT training opportunities with Angus Libraries, either for yourself or someone you know, please contact your local library or our IT Training Co-ordinator on 01241 435605.
The self taught BBC 1st Click course provides basic guidance in the use of the Internet and e-mail and is available online in all Learning Centres.
Please note that our library staff are happy to give you as much help as they can, but they cannot give computer tuition on a drop-in basis.
What other IT courses do you offer?
We offer both accredited and informal IT training courses in our libraries.
Once you have mastered the keyboard and mouse, for home computer use you might be interested in:
- "First Steps - Get Started with Computers" - basic skills to use a computer more competently
- "First Steps in Word Processing" - create, format, save and print text in documents
- "First Steps in Email (Webmail)" - send and receive emails and work with attachments
- "First Steps in the Internet" - become familiar with the toolbars and buttons to navigate the internet with confidence
These courses are delivered by our tutor in small groups in a relaxed atmosphere in our Learning Centres. A small charge applies; this charge may cover course material for learners to keep.
To develop employability skills, IT training opportunities available through Angus Libraries include:
- British Computer Society's "Computer and Online Basics" - a perfect introduction to using a computer effectively and efficiently
- British Computer Society's "Online Basics" - an introduction to just the internet and email
- British Computer Society's "E-Type" - advanced keyboard skills for speed and efficiency
- British Computer Society's "ECDL Essentials", "ECDL" & "Advanced ECDL" - modular and exam-based courses recognised nationally by employers
We also take referrals for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).
Charges apply for these courses, but many learners will be eligible for an ILA Scotland account which will cover course costs.
If you would like to know more about IT training opportunities with Angus Libraries, either for yourself or someone you know, please contact your local library or our IT Training Co-ordinator on 01241 435605.
Can I hire the Learning Centre for my own group training?
Our Library Learning Centres may be hired for use by groups and organisations, usually during library opening hours.
Applicants for the hire of accommodation in libraries must complete an Application for Hire of Library/Museum form and submit this to the relevant Library.
Charges are made at either the standard or community rate (for details see Theatre, Library and Museums Accommodation Hire.), although some hirers may be eligible for a reduction or fee exemption.
Hirers should satisfy themselves that the hardware and software available is suitable for their requirements.
Please contact staff at your local library for more information.
Who do I contact for further information?
Contact your local library, or, for specific details of courses contact fenwickp@angus.gov.uk or 01241 435605.
Service Page: learningcentres.htm
Service Details Last Reviewed : 24 August 2012
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