Calendar

Are you learning to speak English? Would you like some practice in a casual, informal atmosphere? Fort Bend County Libraries presents a program for individuals of all nationalities who would like a place to practice their English language and conversation skills. The “ESL Conversation Circles” provide an opportunity for non-English-speaking people to gather in a relaxed setting, and discuss topics of their own choosing while practicing their English skills.

The ESL Conversation Circles will take place at multiple locations in the Fort Bend County library system in May. Reservations are NOT required. The schedule is as follows:

• Cinco Ranch Branch Library– 2620 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy

o  Fridays, May 3 and 10, 2:00-3:00 pm, Multipurpose Room.

• Fulshear Branch Library– 6350 GM Library Road, off Texas Heritage Parkway

o   Monday, May 6, 6:00-7:00 pm, Conference Room.

• Mission Bend Branch Library– 8421 Addicks Clodine Road

o   Wednesdays, May 8 and 22, 2:00-3:00 pm, Conference Room.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the ESL/Adult Literacy Department at George Memorial Library (281-341-2652) or any of the branch libraries.

Fort Bend County Libraries’ Adult Services staff present a variety of free, introductory computer classes each month. The classes consist of a hands-on introduction to basic skills for people who would like to learn more about using these computer and technology programs. The classes take place in the Computer Labs of the libraries; seating is limited and reservations are required.

 To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select the library, and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the branch libraries. For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734). The schedule for May is as follows:

Fulshear Branch Library, 6350 GM Library Road, off Texas Heritage Parkway (346-481-6800)

• MS PowerPoint 2021: Basics – Wednesday, May 1,11:00 am-12:00 noon. Learn the basics of using this slideshow-presentation software program.
• MS PowerPoint 2021: Intermediate – Wednesday, May 8,11:00 am-12:00 noon. Understand this slideshow-presentation program even better by learning more advanced functions and tools.
• Drop-In Tech Help– Wednesday, May 15, 11:00 am-12:00 noon, Computer Lab. Schedule a one-on-one Q&A session at the library! Library staff is available to assist with technology-related questions about email, internet, and eReader questions. Those attending should bring their personal electronic device or use one of the library’s computers.

George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond (281-342-4455)

• eReader Q&A– Mondays, May 6 and 20, 2:00-4:00 pm, Adult Services Learning Lab. (Reservations not required for this come-and-go session.)
• Computers 101– Tuesday, May 7, 10:00 am-12:00 noon. This class presents a basic, hands-on introduction to using computers.
• Typing for Beginners– Monday, May 13, 10:00-11:00 am. Learn how to use a self-paced typing tutorial on a computer keyboard. Get tips on increasing typing speed and accuracy.
• MS PowerPoint 2019: Basics– Tuesday, May 14, 10:30-11:30 am. Learn the basics of using this slideshow-presentation software program.
• MS PowerPoint 2019: Intermediate– Tuesday, May 21, 10:30-11:30 am. Understand this slideshow-presentation program even better by learning more advanced functions and tools.

University Branch Library, 14010 University Blvd, Sugar Land (281-633-5100)

• Open Computer & Technology Lab – Monday, May 6, 6:00-7:00 pm. Tech-savvy library staff will be available to provide one-on-one assistance and answer questions on a variety of topics, from email and Internet to e-readers, ebooks, or other technology. Those attending may bring their own device or use one of the library’s computers.
• MS Excel 2019: Basics– Monday, May 13, 6:00-7:00 pm. Learn the basics of using this spreadsheet software program, which features calculation tools that are helpful for financial and statistical needs.
• eLibrary 101 – Wednesday, May 22, 6:00-7:00 pm. Learn how to download free ebooks, magazines, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and music to a smartphone or tablet from FBCL’s eLibrary. Bring the device and learn how to get the apps and how to browse and download great digital resources. Attendees should have a working email address and correct log-in information for their devices.

Fort Bend County Libraries will present a variety of programs, classes, and activities in May that encourage fledgling writers, or anyone who has ever wanted to write a novel, to take the plunge and pursue their dreams in a helpful, supportive environment.

Throughout the month, Fort Bend County Libraries will host programs that are intended to encourage new writers by providing tips and tricks, writing and publishing advice, and support from other aspiring novelists.

These programs are free and open to the public.

• Prose Pros Writing Group– Monday, May 6, 6:00-7:30 pm, Cinco Ranch Branch Library (2620 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy)

The featured topic this month is “Exposition.” During the latter half of the workshop, participants will have an opportunity to share their manuscripts with others and get constructive feedback.

• Writer’s Workshop– Thursday, May 16, 2:00-3:00 pm, Fulshear Branch Library (6350 GM Library Road, off Texas Heritage Parkway)

In this new monthly series, learn the basics of creative writing. Get tips on story structure, characterization, setting, tone, and more. The topic for May is “Setting, Tone, and Timeline.” Registration required.

• Story Spinners Writing Club– Thursday, May 16, 5:30-8:30 pm, George Memorial Library (1001 Golfview, Richmond)

From beginning blogger to published novelist, writers of all genres and experience levels are welcome to write, share, learn, support, network, and critique each other’s work at this monthly meeting. Writing prompts, brainteasers, and brief exercises will be available to ignite the imaginations of any and all wordsmiths who wish to hone their craft. This program is recommended for adults and teens aged 14 and up.

For more information, or to sign up for the programs requiring registration, see Fort Bend County Libraries’ website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select the library, and choose the program on the online calendar, or call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).