← Help in Grant County

Wants to learn to use a computer or smartphone

Use when someone wants to learn basic computer or smartphone skills: turning it on, email, the internet, apps, online forms, video calls, or staying safe from scams.

In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.

1Find out where they are starting

You can ask"What do you want to be able to do? Email, job applications, video calls, banking?"
You can ask"Do you have a phone or computer now?"
You can say"Everyone starts somewhere. It is never too late to learn."

2Free help in person

Silver City Public Library
Open Tech Lab - free help with phones, tablets and computers
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · First Tuesday of each month, 3-5 pm
Silver City Public Library
Free computers, internet and Wi-Fi
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-3pm; closed Sun
Bayard Public Library
Free computers and internet
575-537-6244
1112 Central Ave., Bayard · Mon-Fri 9:30 am-5 pm; Saturday only for special events
Santa Clara Public Librarynot yet confirmed: call first
Free computers and internet
575-537-4120
105 Fort Bayard St., Santa Clara · Mon-Fri 10am-6pm (call to confirm)
Silver City Public Library
Free library card (homeless residents welcome)
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City · Mon-Thu 9am-6pm; Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-3pm

3Free lessons online

GCFGlobal LearnFree
Free online lessons: computer basics, email, internet, Microsoft Office, job sea
DigitalLearn.org (Public Library Association)
Free beginner computer skills videos in English and Spanish
Northstar Digital Literacy: Digital skills assessments and certificates
These contact details need another check. Find current resources, or call the Mission at 575-388-5071.

4Get a phone or computer

At the Gospel MissionAsk staff about a government (Lifeline) phone from the stuff drawer.
PCs for People
Low-cost refurbished computers and prepaid mobile internet
651-354-2552
· Online
Silver City Public Library
Wi-Fi hotspot lending
575-538-3672
515 W. College Ave., Silver City
EveryoneOn
Find low-cost home internet and computers
· Statewide phone/online

5Stay safe online

You can say"Never give your Social Security number, bank card or passwords to someone who calls, texts or emails you first."

This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer

Know a better way? Is something out of date?

If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.

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Print these steps · Find more places to get help · Hours and numbers change; please call ahead. Something wrong? Tell us
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.