Before you Buy a Desktop Computer System Get tips from the experts before you buy your next computer. Includes information on buying a desktop system, a laptop or a new video card, as well as product reviews.

CNET or ZDNet Read reviews about computers, digital cameras, handhelds, MP3 players, software, and more.

Computer User Magazine Offers information on finding an ISP, software, hardware, the Internet and more.

Driver Guide Excellent source for finding and downloading drivers.

PC Magazine Articles and reviews on computer equipment, software, or ideas. Sometimes offers new, free software.

Personal Stereo Reviews Reviews of personal stereo systems, MP3 players, radios, CD players and more from Consumer Reports. Search by category, by rating or by brand.
 

Internet, Chat & Email

Remember to get your parent's permission before downloading on your home computer. You won't be able to download any of the following programs on library computers.

AIM Express Chat with friends online. No downloads required.

CNET's Hotspot Zone Find out where you can get wi-fi access while on the road. Search by address or zip code. This site shows free and pay hot spots.

Free Email Address Directory Lists over 1,000 free email providers, gives tips on using free email accounts, and offers links to free email providers on the web.

Mail2web Pick up your email from anywhere with web access! All you need is your email address and password. Your email must be a POP email account to use Mail2web.

Meebo  Supports chat for AIM, Yahoo!, MSN, Google Talk, ICQ and Jabber. No downloads or installs required and it's free!

MSN Messenger Get MSN Messenger to chat online. Includes downloads, emoticons and extras.

Netlingo -The Internet Dictionary This glossary provides definitions to hundreds of words pertaining to computers, the Internet and digital technology.

Web Design Basics

Online Tutorials

Interested in learning more about web design and how to create web pages? Try these online tutorial sites.

HTML with Style: Tutorials Start off with HTML 101 to learn the basics of making web pages, and work your way up to linking and style sheets.

CSS Tutorial Learning CSS (cascading style sheets) will allow you to control the layout and style of multiple web pages at once.

Webmonkey Has a How To library and Quick Reference links.

Web Teacher Covers web basics, including making a simple web page.

Good Books for Beginners

Try these books designed for beginning webmasters. These books are all owned by the City of Mesa Library.

Creating Web Graphics for Dummies by Bud E. Smith
Call number: 005.712 SM52G 2003

Creating Web Pages All In One Desk Reference for Dummies
Call number: 005.712 C86D 2002

Design It Yourself Web Sites: A Step-by-Step Guide by Avi Itzkovich
Call number: 005.7126 IT9D 2003

HTML 4 for the World Wide Web: With XML and CSS by Elizabeth Castro
Call number: 005.711 H859C 2003