tkelley@stmarys.org

The FAQ might help you. It is found several places, including

Why do you "need to know....."....? you work at a medical facility....if you can believe your email address... or should we believe the @ boobs.com one instead....(more likely.... 8-) )

It's not something you're going to learn over night... It's an acquired skill that takes many years to master.... and every lock is different , and what works on one won't necessarily work on another....

It's knowledge that can get you into trouble real quick.....

Try "The complete book of locksmithing". Very informative. It should only take a few weeks to get good at very simple locks. Most amateurs spend several hours every day for weeks learning the basics. Many (if not most) give up after a few days.

I've heard that if you don't practice a few hours a week that you'll lose the feel. I can consistantly pick some locks in a few minutes, and others in a few hours.

Make sure you learn if it's OK to pick locks in your local. In some areas local, state or national laws make it a crime. In others, it's OK as long as you own the lock. In all cases, be aware that police may find posession of picks a good reason to interrogate or arrest you. My picks stay at home.

Good luck.

Daniel

online info, google search / key word "lockpicking"