The Covington, Maple Valley, and Black Diamond branches of the King County Library System are seeking volunteers to teach beginning computer classes such as “Introduction to Computers,” “Internet Level 1,” “E-mail Basics” and “Microsoft Office Products.” Applicants will be trained to be NetMaster volunteers.

Information about the NetMaster program and its orientation sessions is available from Stephen Kahn, the program’s coordinator, at (425) 369-3444 and skahn@kcls.org. Also, here are some questions and answers from King County Library System:

Q: What is it?

A: The NetMaster program provides you with the opportunity to teach others how to use personal computers and the Internet. Our volunteer training will show you how to teach others how to harness the impressive powers of personal computers and how to unlock the doors to the vast store of information on the Internet, as well as give you the necessary information to meet the responsibility of representing the King County Library System (KCLS). Many people in our community are still confused and intimidated by computers and the Internet. Share your skills with teachers, parents, students, seniors and others who want to discover how to make computers work successfully for them.

The program will provide the training and materials you’ll need to teach classes to the public at a branch of KCLS. You’ll also receive certification as a NetMaster and may communicate and learn from other NetMasters. Active NetMasters will be notified of training updates. In return for the free training, you’ll be expected to teach four one to two-hour computer classes at a branch using our training materials.

Q: What qualifications do I need?

A: Your enthusiasm to become a NetMaster is the most important thing. Useful skills also include familiarity with the Web and use of search engines, or knowledge of common business application programs such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. You’ll also have to have the time, after completing the course, to teach at least four classes at our libraries in a six-month period.

Q: How much time do I need to contribute?

A: The program is designed to be flexible and convenient for people with busy schedules. The initial training takes about three hours, spread over one or two sessions, usually at a library near you. After that, your basic commitment is to teach a minimum of four classes over the course of a year. Classes usually run about one and a half hours.

Q: Can I arrange a convenient teaching schedule?

A: Classes are offered at libraries throughout KCLS, and most libraries’ schedules include classes during weekdays, evenings and weekends. Your schedule will depend on where you volunteer and the current needs at that library.

Q: How do I become a NetMaster?

A: The first step is to fill out the online application form. The next step is to apply for an open position. Then you observe a demonstration of a typical class. It doesn’t have to be the same exact class that you will be teaching. The NetMaster coordinator will communicate with you about available demonstration classes or will set one up for you. After observing a class, you participate in an orientation. The orientation takes about one to two hours and takes place at a convenient library. You can cover much of the orientation material by reading the Volunteer Manual. The orientation provides you with class outlines and curriculum materials, acquaints you with library policies and personnel, and introduces you to the libraries’ computers.