Benchmark
For
Understanding Real Needs
Use evidence of needs to compare with outside standards or trends.
Data Story Format
"We are seeking and gathering data from ___[our community]__via [survey/dataset]__ so that we understand how our work relates to __[other work, best practices, or standards]__."
Possible Use
Library Card Registration: We are seeking and gathering data through a survey of public library systems nationwide so that we understand how our library card registration process relates to other libraries' practices to create guiding principles and best practices.
Real Story Examples
Analyzing how patrons get library cards to create guiding principles and best practices for library card registration. https://publiclibrariesonline.org/2023/11/cardholder-signup-practice-collecting-and-analyzing-how-patrons-get-library-cards/
Ending late fees as a case for equity. https://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/11/ending-late-fees-a-case-for-equity/
Quantifying returns on library investment. https://publiclibrariesonline.org/2021/08/working-paper-seeks-to-quantify-library-roi/
Data Visualization Recommendations
General Guidance
Benchmark: Consider using a bar chart to indicate similarities and differences. Horizontal comparison might show differences between libraries. Vertical comparison might show community data over time or in relation to the library strategic plan, or this could be represented by a separate line chart. In general, line charts are the best choice for indicating change over time.
