We live in a fast-changing world, and we’re constantly implored to learn new skills and stay up to date on our current skills. But doing so isn’t easy. Once we leave school, how are we supposed to keep up? Many of the free resources we find online are of dubious quality, and often ask for our personal information. Or there’s a free component, but to access quality instruction, you have to pay- usually some sort of monthly subscription fee.
Another issue is that many software programs change constantly. Gone are the days of once-every-few years updates; programs often update automatically every year, or even more often. It is even difficult to keep up using instruction manuals and textbooks- sometimes it seems as soon as a book is published, it’s out of date.
Now Neill Public Library cardholders have a new way to pursue lifelong learning- access to Lynda.com, a robust learning resource with more than 12,000 courses. New courses are added and existing courses are updated frequently, and you can learn at your own pace. And Whitman County Library cardholders have access to Lynda.com as well.
Lynda.com courses range from basic computer skills to advanced computer programming, including instruction on various software programs, programming languages, and business topics. Video courses are taught by industry experts and designed for any skill level. Lynda.com offers more than 50 different learning paths to help users achieve their bucket lists, get ahead in their current jobs or prepare for a career change. Lynda.com courses are available for dozens of popular software and developer tools, including:
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, etc.)
• Adobe Creative Suite and other specialized software including QuickBooks, GIS, and CAD programs
• Coding and markup languages such as C, Java, Python, Ruby, MySQL, HTML, CSS, and PHP
Lynda.com is not limited to computer software, though. It also offers courses on general business topics and personal advancement, such as:
• Starting and managing a small business
• Project management, communication, marketing, and leadership
• Data analysis and visualization, user experience, and general web design
• Creative arts including music, film, animation, and game design
Lynda.com is available inside or outside the library, from any device with an internet connection. Whether you are a professional wanting to sharpen your skills, or a beginner learner starting from square one, Lynda.com provides convenient self-paced instruction to help you fulfill your educational goals. Best of all, it’s free with your Neill Public Library card. To get started, grab your library card and visit www.neill-lib.org, then select Lynda.com on the menu. Happy learning!
Lynda.com is available thanks to a partnership with the Washington State Library, Office of the Secretary of State and LinkedIn.
Dan Owens
Adult Services Librarian
No comments:
Post a Comment