This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
The Longmont Public Library has announced its decision to discontinue providing the popular online learning service, Lynda.com. The service, first offered by the Library in January, 2018, was recently acquired by the LinkedIn company, which changed the name from Lynda.com to LinkedInLearning. Among other changes, the new iteration of the service requires users to create a LinkedIn social media account and publicly displays on that account which courses the user has taken. These changes violate the Library's commitment to insuring that patrons' use records are confidential. In addition, Library staff conducted a thorough review of usage numbers for its Lynda.com service and determined that it was one of the most expensive services being provided, per patron use. Based on these considerations, the Library has decided to discontinue offering Lynda.com/LinkedInLearning, effective December 20, 2019. Patrons currently using the service or considering starting a class are encouraged to complete their learning by that date.
The Library will continue offering other learning services, including Learning Express and DigitalLearn. Staff are also presently exploring and considering other services to offer in place of Lynda.com/LinkedInLearning, including one that will allow Library staff to create their own videos and classes.
