Digital Skills and Safety

Learn more about basic skills for computers and Chromebooks, as well as how to stay safe online, from the resources below.

Basic Skills

Create a Google Account—Step-by-step instructions to create a Google account to easily access Google apps like Gmail and Google Drive storage on a Chromebook.
Getting Started on a Chromebook—Basic steps, with pictures, for setting up a Chromebook, for those with little or no experience using a Chromebook.
Chromebook Setup—Instructions on how to use a Chromebook and hotspot individually and when paired. Offers illustrations of the set-up process as well as in-depth videos for more clarity.
Ten Must-Know Tips for Beginners—A more detailed and in-depth article on how to use a Chromebook and its features (i.e. modifying Google Sync). Beneficial for those who want to check out a Chromebook for an extended period.

Goodwill Community Foundation—Free courses that share techniques to sharpen computer skills as well as more advanced skills. Each step has a link with more explanation.
Basic Technology Skills—Knowledge ranging from using tablets to how-to guides on helpful resources, such as LinkedIn. Provides supporting course materials in both English and Spanish.
NorthStar: Digital Literacy—NorthStar allows users to create an account and customize their digital literacy learning process. Once an account is created, all progress is saved and stored within the account, similar to a Chromebook Google account.

Choosing the Best Free Email Service—Tips for choosing a free email provider.
Email Etiquette and Safety—Tips for writing emails and protecting yourself from malware and phishing scams.

Introduction to the Internet—Covers the origin/history of the internet, what it consists of and how to be safe using it.
Learn How to Use the Internet—Tips on staying safe and resourceful on the internet on and offline, as well as free online courses for beginners looking to sharpen their digital skills.
Using Search Engines—Learn how to use the many types of search engines and find the one most suitable for your needs.

Personal Digital Security—Basics on digital security and being cautious on the web and devices. Defines what hacking is and how to avoid it if possible.
Tips for Parents—Advice for parents who are checking out technology for their children. Learn how a child may accidentally come across dangerous sites with harmful content that may negatively impact online use.
Online Safety—Informative article about internet safety laws for children and how they can safely navigate their online experience. Offers guidelines for parental supervision and staying involved in their kids' lives when it comes to the internet.
Internet Safety Tips—Tips for staying safe on the internet for unsuspecting users and how sharing “basic” information can be harmful. Lists of the "shoulds" are separated into categories for targeting kids and adults.
Learn More About Digital Privacy and Security—Covers a wide range of topics, including safely applying for jobs and shopping online, setting up a social media account and keeping kids safe.
Quick Guide to Secure Passwords—Tips for creating secure passwords.
Google’s Tips for Secure Browsing—Although Google does its best to keep users safe and informed on potential internet threats, users will need to take extra precautions just in case.

Digital Library—Access BCPL’s electronic resources, including e-books, audiobooks, streaming videos and e-magazines.
Databases, Online Learning and Test Preparation—BCPL’s research resources and databases are useful for students of all ages, or anyone looking for specific and reliable information.
Get Assistance at a MyLibrarian Appointment—Get one-on-one personal assistance with My Librarian, a free, 60-minute reference session with a Baltimore County Public Library librarian. Available in-person at all branches, and virtually through video chat or phone call. Get help with setting up an email account, downloading e-books, job search assistance, using Microsoft Office, and more. To schedule an appointment, complete this interest form or call a BCPL branch and ask to schedule an appointment.