OPAL and SirsiDynix Institute

The OPAL site provides training for both library users and librarians. The SirsiDynix Institute provides professional development opportunities for the library community (geared largely to librarians). I saw several training sessions that interested me on both sites. OPAL mentions providing virtual tours of special digital library collections-something that could appeal to many users. When browsing the SirsiDynix archive, I was particularly interested in the “Gaming in the Library” Session that will take place soon. SirsiDynix seems to be providing educational support to help library professionals stay up to date on the trends and developments in the rapidly changing world of technology. I saw a similarly titled library gaming programming on OPAL, but also found a neat program about photography (presented by a blind professional photographer). All really interesting stuff.

I think that patrons might really benefit from some of the cool programs provided through OPAL. The SirsiDynix site could be helpful to all library staff, especially those in management positions.

After watching the OPAL introduction, this seems like an extremely easy to use and useful way to learn. With the diversity of information available, most anyone could find some kind of training that suited their interests. From copyright seminars for special librarians, to the Chick Lit Discussion Group…there are so many resources. This could be particularly useful for public libraries. Anything can relate to the public library. This is partially what makes them such interesting places to work. The library is as diverse (or strives to be) as the community and world we live in. I believe that OPAL could help meet the increasing diverse needs of patrons and staff.