Synopsis "Putting Library Assessment Data to Work"
Effective library assessment is crucial for a successfulacademic library. But what do we mean by library assessment and how can it beused to improve the library service? This book provides a practical guide forlibrary administrators, managers and practitioners on how to make effective useof existing sources of information for assessment activities with the aim ofimproving academic library services.Putting LibraryAssessment Data to Work brings together key library assessmentmethodologies detailing how they can be used to improve an academic library. Thebook takes common sources of data that academic libraries will already becollecting, and presents simple qualitative and quantitative techniques thatcan be used to evaluate and assess their services, both in detail and overall.The different assessment methods are presented from a practical perspectivewith a theoretical grounding, and include practical case studies to illustratehow the methodologies have successfully been applied. The book includes coverage of: The theoretical framework for assessment, it's purpose andthe tools and techniques usedInstitutional, national and international student surveysand how they can be sued to improve library serviceThe history and development of standardised library surveys(eg libQUAL+), how they have been used and their impactThe benefits of In house library surveys and case studies ofwhere they gave been usedQualitative feedback in the libraryTaking a holistic approach to library assessment through advocacyand strategic planning.This book will be essential reading for library andinformation service managers, administrators, assessment practitioners, educators and policy shapers. It will also be useful for students andresearchers interested in library assessment.