[LM_NET] HIT: GEN: OPALS

[Paul Birkby <Paul_Birkby@PENFIELD.MONROE.EDU>]

I only got 2 responses, but did get name requests for a HIT to my target on
OPALS:

I'm doing a trial of OPALS for the schools in my district.  We're
looking at possibly replacing Athena with the product since budget money
doesn't appear as if it will cover the (much) higher priced options.  I
have to say that while it isn't as robust as other programs, it appears
as if it will get the job done adequately.  Our primary concern right is
the length of time it takes for a checkout to register (8-10 seconds)
and their support staff is working to see what might be causing that
delay.
I am most impressed with the responsive tech support team.  My emails
are always answered promptly and thoroughly, many times by the program's
creator, Harry Chan.   (I talked to another librarian, Karen Ulric, who
uses OPALS and she has had the same experience, so this is apprently not
just "trial behavior .  Her library site is
http://www.ssdsofessexandunion.org/library/index.html and there is a
link to the library catalog there.)
 If you haven't, look at the last newsletter posted on their site.  It
is full of improvements to the program made largely as a result of user
input.  I think overall I would prefer to go with one of the larger,
more comprehensive & robust offerings, but as I mentioned, if our
budgets won't allow it, we will most likely go with OPALS.

***************
I just implemented OPALS in our library.  (We went from an old card
catalog to OPALS and I really like it.  I love the cataloging aspect
and the check-in and return processes are all really user-friendly.)
The whole system is well-organized and very easy to learn.  Also, OPALS
are a great team to work with.  Please LMK if you need any other
information.  I would highly recommend it.


***********************
Paul D. Birkby
Media Specialist
Penfield High School
25 High School Drive
Penfield, NY 14526

Paul_Birkby@penfield.monroe.edu

"I really didn't realize the librarians were, you know, such a dangerous
group. They are subversive. You think they're just sitting there at the
desk, all quiet and everything. They're like plotting the revolution, man.
I wouldn't mess with them."    Michael Moore

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