New to Windows 8? We Can Help. |

Windows 8 is the most recent version of Microsoft's popular operating system. Launched a little more than a year ago, it comes pre-installed on most new PCs these days (whether desktop or laptop) and can also be found on some tablets. Greg from the Toronto Reference Library's Digital Design Studio blog describes this new operating system very well in the blog Windows 8.

As it looks and works a bit different from previous versions of Windows, many people are experiencing some difficulty when they first start using it. If you have a new PC or Windows 8 tablet and need help becoming familiar with it, we have many resources available to help.

Streaming Video Tutorials:

It can be easier to learn how to use a new operating system or software by watching a tutorial video instead of reading about it in a book. The Safari Tech & Business Books Online service has a number of streaming tutorial videos about Windows 8. Because the eBooks and videos on Safari can not be downloaded, they are always available to read and view. Here are a few of the tutorial videos:

Getting Started with Windows 8 video tutorial will introduce the new interface in Windows 8, show you how to use it and get the best out of it, and help build your confidence with your new computer. (60 minutes)

Learning Microsoft Windows 8 . A comprehensive, step-by-step look at Windows 8 for those with no previous experience. This tutorial begins with a tour of the new Windows interface and continues with lessons on how to manage files and folders and how to use Windows 8 Apps. Other topics covered include: keeping your data secure and properly maintaining your Windows computer. (8 hours, 38 minutes)

Using Windows 8 video covers everything you need to get the most out of Windows 8. Topics range from the Windows Desktop, the new Windows Store, and personalization to using Apps like Bing, SkyDrive and Internet Explorer 10. This video also covers the topics of networking, family safety, system performance, and troubleshooting. (2 hours, 38 minutes)

Windows 8 Live Lessons contains 100 step-by-step short videos, each less than 5 minutes in length. You can watch them one after another, or jump to and from the topics that interest you. (4 hours, 25 minutes)

Windows 8 Video Quickstart tutorials videos have short, engaging lessons to show Windows' new features in action. They will illustrate how to work with tiles, make your way around the desktop, work with control panels and settings, how to switching among applications, and more. (51 minutes)

Books and eBooks:

Of course, the Toronto Public Library has many books (and eBooks) as well. The eBooks in our OverDrive collection are available to checkout and download for 21 days. The eBooks from our Safari collection can not be checked out, but are always available. Unless otherwise indicated, the eBooks in the list are from our Safari Tech & Business eBooks Online collection.