Basic computer and Internet skills made easy!


Tony Traguardo has been 'surfing' the Internet since the early days of dial-up. Skills that he has learned during his years as a librarian, combined with those he acquired using the Internet for numerous business ventures, form the vast knowledge base that Tony is able to draw from for his computer lectures.

Audiences are amazed at how easily Tony is able to explain and clarify basic ideas and concepts about PCs, various programs, or the Internet, in his focused two-hour session. "The most important thing," Tony explains, "is to not go over their heads … and to demystify things as much as possible. The other major point is to make it fun!"

Some of the topics that Tony covers in his computer lecture series include:

  • Searching the Internet (aka 'Forming a Search Party!'- Tony explains some of the basic principles for doing an effective search, and looks into some of the basics of online database searching. And it's not all about Go*gle!

  • Get It For Free Online! - Tony Traguardo talks about some of the many amazing free resources available online that provide entertainment, (accurate) information, and money-saving opportunities.

  • Working with Databases - The focus of this program can be selected by the individual facility. Libraries may request that the online databases available to their patrons - either at home or in the library - be reviewed. Other facilities may want to present a review of the many useful free databases that are available online.

  • Reading With Your Ears - This program looks at the many audiobooks, free radio programs, podcasts, and educational lectures available on the Internet.

  • e-bay - The ins and outs of the Internet's leading auction site are covered in a fun and enlightening program of basics for the beginners and tips for the intermediate users.


  • Get Started with Open Office 'Impress' for Presentations - Learn the basics of this free program that can allow you to develop exciting, informative and entertaining presentations with only a basic knowledge of computers. (NOTE: This program, which requires pre-enrollment, is for a hands-on environment only. Your library IT staff will need to pre-install this free, 100% safe program on computers used in the workshop before the event.)

While Tony enjoys working in a multimedia lecture-type setting, facilities with computer classrooms can take advantage of his ability to present any of the above programs in a hands-on environment.

And of course, if you would like to suggest a program, feel free to give us a call!