Getting gadgets? If your Christmas list
includes technology, then we have some books for you. Oh sure, you will probably get an owner’s
guide with that brand new iPad or laptop.
But really, having recently faced a new laptop that runs Windows 8, I
can highly recommend something much more understandable like
“Windows 8 Simplified” by Paul McFedries. If all
else fails, I don’t even have to know that much about what exactly I need to
know, I can just look at the pictures, using them as a visual index.
The Dummies series is useful too,
especially if you are just getting started.
Among many other Dummies titles, I found “Laptops and Tablets for Seniors or Dummies” by Nancy Muir to be particularly helpful.
If you don’t
really know the difference between a laptop and a desktop or a laptop and a
tablet, this book is for you. With two chapters on safety and security, and one
on getting help with vision and hearing challenges, this book is thorough and
well organized. The print also appears to be slightly larger than normal,
another plus for older readers.
And speaking of font size, have you
discovered the joys of e-reading? Unlike
a hardcover book, my Kindle graciously allows me to make the letters bigger as
the day goes on and my eyes start to tire. If, on the other hand, Santa brings a Nook to
your house, thank him; then visit our library for “The Nook Book: an unofficial guide,” by Patrick Kanouse.
For iPad owners, I recommend “How to Do Everything iPad,” by Joli Ballew.
Master the iPad and you can master your life,
apparently. At the very least you’ll be able to “Manage Your Schedule” (Chapter
13) and “Find a Nearby Restaurant and Walk to It” (Chapter 14, “Use
Maps”).
If you’re worried about technology,
particularly the Internet, mastering you and your family, then “Raising Digital Families for Dummies” Amy Bair may be for you.
Filled with practical advice
about some of modern parenting’s hottest topics, this book is a welcome
addition to our library collection.
All it takes to share in our collection is
a valid library card--think of it as being on Santa’s Library’s Nice List. Ask at the Help Desk for more recommended
computer books.
