The Free Library is pleased to announce the graduation of 13 patrons from the Digital Skills Program, taught by Beyond Literacy. This eight-week course covers computer and internet basics, and students must pass assessments in eight topics to complete the program. This week, the 13 graduates will join 75 graduates in celebrating their accomplishments at Beyond Literacy’s 2025 graduation ceremony!

Digital literacy instructors Luriel Balaurea and Vicki Szondy offer the Computer Basics curriculum at eight locations in Philadelphia. This partnership began in 2022 between adult education provider Beyond Literacy and the City of Philadelphia. In libraries and senior centers, Luriel and Vicki have taught hundreds of students in the last few years. They would like to shout out their 2025 Free Library graduates: Zina at Parkway Central Library; Yclene Cayo, Kathy, and Bob at Northeast Regional Library; Reinson, Margret, Michael, Dennis, and Jaqueline at Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library; Abdoul and Margaret at South Philadelphia Library; and Jheishad and Luz at Lillian Marrero Library.

Here is what students had to say about this program:

"The computer skills I learned in Beyond Literacy has helped me look for jobs and look for more opportunities in life." - Margret

"I'm so appreciative for this computer class. I looked into computer classes, and usually you had to take a college class, in which you had to take out a student loan, just to learn how to get some knowledge of the computer. Until I found out about Beyond Literacy. I learned a lot in this class and am still learning." - Michael 

"Miss Vicki is very helpful in showing you how to use the computer. I share what I’ve learned with everyone and tell them they can get help at the libraries." - Margaret

Are you interested in taking a weekly computer course? Call Beyond Literacy at 215-474-1235 to sign up for our interest list. You will be contacted when it’s time to register for class. The next cycle begins in September.