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
User needs and input alongside contextualized circulation and attendance numbers in one library's assessment. https://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/08/from-alone-to-together-again-using-data-to-deliver-value/
Project Next Generation brings hands-on technology learning experiences to rural youth. https://brimfieldlibrary.org/resources/project-next-generation/
Reading & Learning: Statewide programs focused on grade level reading and literacy. https://imls-spr.imls.gov/Public/Details/92479
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.
