Sirsi Onsite Training - An Overview

Revised Sept. 19, 2006.

The "deliverables" that MPLIC is acquiring from SirsiDynix include a considerable amount of staff training. Many MPLIC staff members will be trained directly by SirsiDynix staff using a generic Unicorn ILS system and database. Most of this training will take place in the Computer Training Room at the Central Library during three weeks in April, August-September, and October. Staff trained in these classes will then have access to self-paced e-learning courses that they can take in their own locations as many times as needed before our "Go Live" date on March 15, 2007. Many of these staff members will become trainers for their co-workers throughout the system.

The classes to be taught onsite by SirsiDynix trainers will include:

Essential Skills for Workflows and EPS/Rooms
A 3-hour class which serves as a prerequisite for all other Unicorn WorkFlows courses. Attendees will learn how to navigate the Workflows interface and the EPS/Rooms OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog).

Cataloging
A one-day class in which attendees will learn how the WorkFlows Cataloging module manages title control data, bibliographic descriptions, and volume and item information; how to create, edit, duplicate, and remove bibliographic records; how to maintain MARC and authority data within the library’s catalog; how to import bibliographic records into the Unicorn catalog via SmartPort or reports; and more.

Circulation
A one-day class designed to provide a basic understanding of the Unicorn Circulation software capabilities and a navigation overview of those functions in the WorkFlows client. The ultimate goal is to train key library staff members so that they in turn may act as trainers for others at their locations. Attendees will learn how to register and modify borrowers; charge, discharge, and renew materials; and more.

Acquisitions
A two-day class designed to provide a basic understanding of the capabilities of the Unicorn Acquisitions software with an overview of navigating those functions in the WorkFlows client. Topics include creating funds, vendors, orders, and invoices. Attendees will also have an opportunity to work practice exercises utilizing what they learn. This class also discusses basic Acquisition reports.

Serials
A two-day class designed to provide a basic understanding of the capabilities of the Unicorn Serials Control software and an overview of navigating those functions in WorkFlows. The ultimate goal of the Serials Control Training Course is to train essential library staff members so that they in turn act as trainers for others. Attendees will learn how to create vendor records, search for existing titles, create serial control records, receive issues, claim issues, and more.

Reports
A one-day class intended for system administrators and other library staff who want to learn how to collect information from the Unicorn system. Attendees will learn how to run a report; determine appropriate report type to run to meet job objectives; interpret report logs/results and identify errors; and more.

PocketCirc
A 2-hour class which will train key staff on the operation of Sirsi's PocketCirc devices, wireless handheld PDAs which allow staff to perform online and offline circulation and inventory operations away from the desk.

Materials Booking
A 3-hour class which provides an overview of the Unicorn Materials Booking Module, which allows for the reserving of library materials or facilities (such as meeting rooms) for a specified time period.