Cyber Security Workshops

Sponsored by: Santa Cruz Public Library System, County Office of Education, Santa Cruz Police, District Attorney’s Office, Cruzio

Four cybersecurity workshops to be offered at Branch Libraries in January

The Santa Cruz Public Library System (SCPL), in partnership with the Santa Cruz Police Department, the County Office of Education and the District Attorney’s Office is putting a spotlight on the need for cybersecurity, especially following the spike in new web-connected devices received as gifts during the holidays. SCPL is announcing four cybersecurity workshops to be held at various branch libraries in January, with topics focused on parents, kids, seniors and small business owners. Parents can learn the ins and outs of Snapchat, quite possibly their tween’s favorite app, as well as how to address cyber bullying. Business owners will receive a handy guide about best online practices.

The classes, each 45 minutes long, will be taught by Lynne Sansevero, Division Manager of Information Technology at SCPL, using curriculum developed by the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security. The first program, focusing on cybersecurity strategies for parents and educators, will be 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Aptos Branch Library.

Practicing good “cyber hygiene” is crucial at all stages of life: for children and teens, business owners and parents, and retirees. Practicing strong and safe online habits protects people’s identities and the networks they use at home, work and anywhere they log in. The Santa Cruz Public Library System, as a leading provider of free community access to computers and technology education, regularly offers programs to help residents better utilize their technology.

WORKSHOPS – Stop. Think. Connect

Parents and Educators

Wednesday January 7, 2015, 7 p.m.

Aptos Branch Library, 7695 Soquel Drive in Aptos

Kids 8-15 and their parents

Sunday, January 11, 2015, 2 p.m.

Downtown Branch Library, 224 Church Street in Santa Cruz

Older Community Members and Seniors

Wednesday, January 21, 2015, 4pm

Downtown Branch Library, 224 Church Street in Santa Cruz

Small Business

Wednesday, January 28, 2015, 7pm

Scotts Valley Branch Library, 251 Kings Village Road in Scotts Valley

The Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL) deliver information, education, enrichment and inspiration through a network of 10 neighborhood library branches, a web-based digital library, a Bookmobile and community-based programs. Residents can explore a wide range of interests from academic research, book clubs and literacy programs to digital photography, locally produced music and local history. Branch locations include Aptos, Boulder Creek, Branciforte, Capitola, Downtown Santa Cruz, Felton, Garfield Park, La Selva Beach, Live Oak and Scotts Valley.

Learn more about SCPL at SantaCruzPL.org or via Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter and YouTube.