Benchmark
For
Serving Real Needs
Use evidence of needs met through services to compare with outside standards or trends.
Data Story Format
"We have gathered and analyzed data from ___[our community]___ showing real needs that we can meet. We are ready to plan new services, and we are researching similar ways of meeting these needs so that we understand how our plans will relate to __[other work, best practices, or standards]__."
Possible Use
We have gathered and analyzed qualitative data from our survey. Combining this data with circulation, attendance numbers, and the demographics of our community, we are ready to plan ways of sustaining the services we are known for with more books, bigger spaces, faster delivery, and bringing services closer to home for our community.
Real Story Examples
From Alone to Together Again: Using Data to Deliver Value: Worthington Libraries and OCLC worked together to collect data on the services and resources most valued by library patrons. Most patrons appreciated the convenience and physical space offered by the library, and did not regularly attend library programming. The authors highlight how libraries should resist innovation for its own sake, and focus on improving services which are most valuable to patrons.
Sustainable California Libraries: Nineteen libraries used this grant to build interest, engagement, and community buy-in on efforts to increase sustainability. Different programs included establishing libraries of things to reduce waste, pollinator garden demonstrations, Fit-It clinics to fix small appliances, and so much more. All these programs allowed the libraries to learn from each other and work together toward a common goal and help their patrons learn to be environmentally responsible.
Evaluating VIPLS and Cultivating Library Staff: OLIS collaborates with public libraries and other organizations to create programs that promote grade level reading for patrons and train staff on how to great these programs for patrons of all reading levels. The program was made to give Rhode Islanders of all ages the ability to strengthen their love for reading and critical understanding.
ILS and content acquisition: LSTA funds aided U.S. Virgin Islands Public Libraries in providing access to a catalog while also maintaining EBSCO, OCLC and Hoopla subscriptions. The investment in these resources allowed USVI Public Libraries to provide access to more than 177,000 items. LSTA funds additionally allowed staff to reach about 40,000 residents in the USVI islands and sign up new patrons with new library cards, training, and outreach.
Data Visualization Recommendations
General Guidance
Benchmark: Consider a bar chart to indicate the importance of the served need. Horizontal comparison could indicate local/regional/ national context. Vertical comparison could indicate goals in the library strategic plan or record of accomplishments over time, or this could be represented by a separate line chart. In general, line charts are the best choice for indicating change over time.
