Justification
For
Building on Strengths
Use assessment of strenghts to justify resources that sustain or expand those strengths.
Data Story Format
"We have assessed our library's strengths in __[programs or services]__ to justify resources that sustain and expand __[related programs or services]__."
Possible Use
We have assessed our library's strength in lending technology to patrons, and, based on positive feedback and sustained high usage, we are expanding our available laptops and tablets.
Real Story Examples
Georgia Public Library Service Distributes 7,000 Chromebooks, 2,800 Launchpad Tablets: Georgia Public Library Service used emergency state and funds to provide 7,000 laptops and 2,800 tablets to students during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The library system had been loaning devices since 2013. This ensured students could continue their education once it was moved online.
The Veterans Health Library: Helping Veterans Stay Well and Well-Informed: The Veterans Health Library (VHL) is a popular resource for Veterans seeking health information, with more than 1.6 million page views per year. Free to use, it is a comprehensive online health resource made to assist Veterans and their families and is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure the information is relevant and up-to-date.
SLT: Your Path to Citizenship @ Carthage Public Library: Even during the pandemic, the program (which had been going for 5 years at this point), was able to have in-person classes once it was safe. Providing English as a Second Language instruction and citizen ship classes, the library boasted 3 participants gaining US citizenship.
Around the World in 30 Days International Festival: This program introduces residents of Henderson, Nevada's public libraries to various cultures. Starting in 2014 and continuing to the present day, various multicultural groups are showcased and celebrated. New collection materials were purchased to further learning about the various cultures presented. Since this program is still held in April every year, it seems to be a success.
Data Visualization Recommendations
General Guidance
Justification: Consider using combinations of line/bar charts to indicate (1) the importance of the issue and (2) the gap in resources needed to build on the library's existing strenghts.
