Introduction to Design Software
In This Guide
The Boston Public Library provides access to the Adobe Creative Cloud on workstations in several locations throughout the system. The goal is to provide access to commercial level software and alternatives for hobbyists, students, entrepreneurs, small business owners, or those looking to build their skills to compete in the job market.
How this Guide is Organized
On each page you will find:
- A description of the software
- Free or low cost alternatives to commercial software
- Web Resources for learning
- Library Resources for learning
- Selected Books from our catalog
On the Find Classes and Meetups page are resources for finding in-person classes at the BPL or other organizations and meetups.
Locations Around the System
Kirstein Business Library & Innovation Center (KBLIC):
KBLIC is home to 8 Macs with the full Adobe Creative Cloud. KBLIC is also home to 10 PC's with Paint.Net. Workstations are first come first served and are available to adults for 2 hours a day using your library card and PIN. Please bring your own storage media such as a USB or External hard drive.
- The Lab at Teen Central:
The Lab offers teens 5 Windows PC's and 5 Macs with 20 different software programs for teens to use for learning, creating, and developing content. Lab software includes Anime Studio, Manga Studio, Adobe Creative Suite, Comic Life, and more. The Lab is open during Teen Central hours for teens who want to use these resources and also offers programs and classes in the different software programs.
- Jamaica Plain Branch
The JP branch will be home to Macs with the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite. Stay tuned for updates about opening information and workstation specs.
Kirstein Business Library & Innovation Center (KBLICLooking for a Career in Design?
Finding formal training
Are you looking to go back to school or take some university level classes to bolster you skills? Check out the ASA College Planning Center for help with funding and finding a program that suits your needs.
- ASA College Planning CenterThe ASA's Boston College Planning Center is located on the lower level of the Boylston Street Building of the Central Library. For current hours and more information, visit the ASA's website.
In-demand skills
O*net is a resource for job hunters to research careers. The site tracks "Hot technologies" which are skills, software, and other traits frequently included in employer job postings. Click on the links below to see which positions employers are listing creative and design software in their job descriptions:
Job search
We also have guides to help you explore careers and plan your jobsearch.