If it's been awhile since your Intro to the Computer class, take a look at Absolute Beginners Guide to Using Your Computer. This site is divided into six self-paced guides that explain the parts of a computer. It is a good site if you've forgotten something we talked about, or just want to review the parts of a computer.

The more you practice using the mouse, the faster you will become comfortable at the computer. It may seem silly or a waste of time to play these games, but you will save time and work faster in the long run. Mouserobics is good practice, but here are some others for variety:

• Mousing Around
• SeniorNet Mouse Exercises
• Pointing, clicking, & scrolling practice

Games are a good way to practice using the mouse. These sites offer free games that involve moving the mouse, clicking on buttons, drag and drop, clicking and dragging, or other mouse movements.

• Mousing Games has games ranging from simple to tricky. And one that no loyal Minnesotan should play!
• These games exercise your mind, too.
• JigZone offers drag and drop jigsaw puzzles from 2 to 247 pieces.
• Think you're a fast clicker? Test your clicking in the Fastest Clicker Game.

Need more variety? Put "mouse practice" into a search engine -Google, Yahoo, or another one-and you will get a list of sites that offer mouse games and tutorials.

Keyboarding, or typing as we said in the old days, is a vital skill for all computer users. Proficient typing really speeds things up and reduces frustration. Accuracy counts, too. Web and email addresses must be entered exactly as they appear, or you end up at the wrong site or your email is undeliverable. As with everything, practice makes perfect. Here are some Web sites that help you practice your keyboarding:

• Can't type? Start here
• 17 Keyboard Drills
• A long list of typing practice sites

Each issue of Stay Connected@your library will include two or more mystery links to interesting, unusual, entertaining, or fun Web sites. You won't know until you click. All are safe for viewing--we've looked at them to be sure!

Clicking on the blue links in Just For Fun will introduce you to the vast resources of the World Wide Web. The variety of information is amazing. If you find an interesting site you would like to share, send us the link at the email address below.

Watch for new Mystery Links in each issue. Click away!