Information professionals routinely assess the use of, satisfaction with, and value of library and information resources and services. Some of this assessment is anecdotal – the usefulness of resources or research for a client matter, reported time savings associated with a new tool or feature. Or we count things – how many articles were downloaded, which databases had the most use, who attended a training event. Whether we collect data for internal or external reporting purposes, the utility of the effort is demonstrated best when it informs decision-making and action.
Too often, libraries and their parent organizations gather data without determining whether the information is precisely what is needed for the path ahead. At the end of the day, everyone wants a library and information service that is relevant and efficient. Whether a firm conducts its own direct and indirect assessment or contracts with an outside provider, the end goal is the same: to have the resources, competence, and agility to help the firm succeed.
Consider these factors and others when evaluating library and information resources and services. If you can gather comparative data for similar-sized organizations in your region, all the better.
- Usage of information resources including print circulation and digital resources
- Views of library intranet pages
- Attendance at training, onboarding, and other programs
- User satisfaction and perceived alignment of needs and resources
- Spend per attorney on information resources
- Organization and efficient points of access to information
- Demonstration of efficient, effective research capabilities
- Promotion or visibility of tools and resources
- Attentiveness to current awareness and tracking
Your goal is to measure impact and then act on the library’s contributions and value to the needs and priorities of the parent organization. The evidence plus the analysis will position the library well for improvement and change.
For further reading:
You will find guidance about defining law library ROI and communicating value from the American Association of Law Libraries.
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