5 Great and Free Software to Learn and Create With at Home
With library branches closed and no access to the software offered in the Digital Innovation Hubs, we wanted to provide a list of some of our favourite free software titles that you can download and use at home.
Not sure how to get started with new software? We’ve got you covered with full video tutorial courses from Lynda.com, one of our many online resources. To access the video tutorials, you will be asked to sign in with your library card.
The Digital Innovation Hubs and Pop Up Learning Labs also presented their first online classes last week with an Introduction to Python coding workshop. More online classes and programs are in development so check back on the TPL website soon for updates.
Stay home, stay safe and learn a new digital skill online!
Audacity
Audacity is a basic yet deceptively powerful multi-track audio recording and editing software. It’s easy enough for beginners to learn quickly and has enough built-in tools and features for more advanced users. Audacity is perfect for podcasters and musicians alike.
Learn Online: Learning Audacity (Lynda.com)
Blender
Blender is 3D design software that can be used to create animation, 3D models, motion graphics and simulation. Check out this recent post on our blog for more resources to get you started with Blender and a couple other free 3D design options.
Learn Online: Introduction to 3D (Lynda.com)
Gimp
GIMP is an image editor that can be used for photo manipulation, graphic design and digital artwork. Whether you want to perfect a photo for Instagram (of your latest sourdough loaf) or to touch up some old photos sitting on an old hard drive buried in a desk drawer, GIMP can help get the job done.
Learn Online: Essential GIMP Training (Lynda.com)
Inkscape
Inkscape is an open source vector graphics editing software with similar features and capabilities as Adobe Illustrator. Because vector graphics are based on x/y coordinates, they can be scaled up or down in size and retain image fidelity. This is an ideal tool for digital artists, designers and anyone interested in creating logos or images to be used online.
Learn Online: Inkscape Essential Training (Lynda.com)
Sculptris
Sculptris is free digital sculpting software from Pixologic, makers of ZBrush, which is popular with movie and video game creators. Sculptris provides an easy entry point to this type of 3D design and offers all the tools you need to get started sculpting your own 3D characters and objects with virtual clay.
Learn Online: Sculptris Essential Training (Lynda.com)
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