Getting Started With Evaluation

Hernon, Peter, Robert E. Dugan, and Joseph R. Matthews. Getting Started with Evaluation. Chicago: ALA Editions, 2014. 
ISBN: 978-0-8389-1195-2

Publisher's Description

Everyone agrees that evaluation of library services is essential, but without a background in research it can be a challenge to apply abstract concepts such as strategic planning, evidence-based decision making, and accountability to real-world situations. Finally library managers have a workbook to help them master key concepts of service quality assessment, offering directed exercises and worksheets to guide them. Firmly rooted in practical application, this book

• Presents an overview of evaluation and the types of metrics, linking them to strategic planning and infrastructure
• Examines qualitative versus quantitative measures
• Shows how to decide which metrics are relevant to one’s own institution, covering benchmarking, best practices, peer group filters, and those metrics that offer a high return on investment
• Includes pointers for launching and maintaining successful library evaluation through flexibility and smart delegation among library staff
• Offers advice on marshaling data to effectively communicate the value and impact of a library and its services, no matter the audience

Complete with a detailed list of sources for metrics and concrete examples of evaluation in practice, this workbook will be both valuable and immediately useful to managers at academic and public libraries, as well as to library trustees and others interested in assessing service quality. 

Table of Contents

Preface

1.  Evaluation

2. Evidence-Based Planning and Decision Making

3. Library Metrics

4. Internal Evaluation for Planning and Decision Making

5. External Evaluation to Inform Stakeholders and to Guide Continuous Improvement

6.  Measuring Satisfaction

7.  Measuring Service Quality

8.  Measuring Return on Investment (ROI)

9. Measuring the Value of the Library and Its Services

10. Using and Communicating the Results

11. Positive Organizational Change

Selected Readings

About the Authors

Index 

Say It With Data

Dando, Priscille. Say It With Data: A Precise Guide to Making Your Case and Getting Results. Chicago: ALA Editions, 2014. 
ISBN: 978-0-8389-1194-5

Publisher's Description

Administrators, policymakers, legislators, and the public demand concrete, measurable evidence of the need for libraries and their use. The collection and dissemination of data about library service in a straightforward, convincing manner are integral components of library advocacy in the current economic climate. Addressing frontline librarians lobbying for increased programming or staff, as well as administrators marshalling statistics to stem the tide of budget cuts and prevent library closure, this vital new book explores the whys and hows of using data to build a better picture of library needs and success. With a distinctive combination of research-based information and practical application, Dando

• Demonstrates how data from surveys, focus groups, ALA, and state and local sources can be aggregated and used to craft a strong message
• Takes readers step by step through the process of using data to tailor a message to specific audiences
• Offers real-world examples from school and public libraries that can be used as models

Addressing the requirements of a variety of stakeholders, this concise resource lays out an easy-to-follow, systematic way of inspiring action through clear, compelling data. 

Table of Contents

Preface 

Acknowledgments

1 Determining Need, Message, and Audience 

2 Secrets of Effective Communication 

3 Working with the Power of Statistics 

4 Methods of Measurement: Surveys 

5 Methods of Measurement: Focus Groups 

6 Presenting Data to Get Results 

Appendix A: Survey Checklist 

Appendix B: Focus Group Checklist 

Appendix C: Data Presentation Checklist 

Appendix D: Birmingham Public Library Patron Survey 

Appendix E: Sample Student Survey, Robert E. Lee High School 

Appendix F: Sample Teacher Survey, Robert E. Lee High School 

Appendix G: Westborough Public School Library Survey (Faculty) 

Appendix H: Sample Survey Results for Analysis 

Bibliography 

Index 

Information Literacy Instruction That Works

Ragains, Patrick, ed. Information Literacy Instruction that Works: A Guide to Teaching by Discipline and Student Population. 2nd ed. Chicago: ALA Neal-Schuman, 2013.
ISBN: 978-1-55570-860-3

 

Publisher's Description

Information literacy and library instruction are at the heart of the academic library’s mission. But how do you bring that instruction to an increasingly diverse student body and an increasingly varied spectrum of majors? In this updated, expanded new second edition, featuring more than 75% new content, Ragains and 16 other library instructors share their best practices for reaching out to today’s unique users. Readers will find strategies and techniques for teaching college and university freshmen, community college students, students with disabilities, and those in distance learning programs. Alongside sample lesson plans, presentations, brochures, worksheets, handouts, and evaluation forms, Ragains and his contributors offer proven approaches to teaching students in the most popular programs of study, including

• English Literature
• Art and Art History
• Film Studies
• History
• Psychology
• Science
• Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
• Hospitality
• Business
• Music
• Anthropology
• Engineering

Coverage of additional special topics, including legal information for non-law students, government information, and patent searching, make this a complete guide to information literacy instruction.

Table of Contents

Transforming Preschool Storytime (book)

Diamant-Cohen, B. & Hetrick, M.A. (2013). Transforming Preschool Storytime: A Modern Vision and a Year of Programs. Chicago, IL: Neal-Schuman.

*Betsy and Melanie provide excellent and brief overviews of the school readiness domains, life skills, early brain development related to young children's need to repeat things, Piaget's constructivism learning theory explaining how children learn through their experiences, Vygotsky theory of scaffolded learning explaining how to build on learning by providing experiences at the appropriate level for each child,Gardner's theory that there are multiple ways (or intelligences) people learn, and Every Child Ready to Read's five early literacy practices. ALL of these things are reviewed in 10 just pages--extremely well worth the 15 minutes or so it would take to read them. (Katie's review)

According to recent research, the best way to make new connections in a child’s brain is by building on something already known. A child who loves a book will listen to it repeatedly, maintaining interest. Using a selected book in a number of consecutive preschool storytimes, but presenting it differently each time, can help children learn new skill sets. This book presents a new approach to storytime, one that employs repetition with variety to create an experience which helps children connect and engage with the story on a higher level. Diamant-Cohen, recently awarded the 2013 ASCLA Leadership and Professional Achievement Award, and Hetrick offer a year’s worth of activities specifically designed to address multiple intelligences through a repetition-based process. Incorporating recent theories on developmental learning, this book includes

• Scripts for 8 different books, with enough activities to repeat each one for six weeks, along with lists of optional alternative books
• Planning aids such as outlines of storytime sessions, a fill-in-the-blanks planning sheet, questions for evaluation, and tips for enhanced storytimes using props and crafts 
• Detailed but straightforward explanations of theory and research that will help readers communicate effectively with parents, caregivers, and other stakeholders

From setup to execution, here’s everything you need to create and implement a successful, elevated storytime.

Check out this book’s Web Extra now!

Fundamentals of Children's Services (2nd Ed)

Sullivan, M. (2013). Fundamentals of Children's Services, 2nd Ed. Chicago, IL: American Library Association.

Children's services are the heart of the library; in fact, more than one-third of U.S. library users are under the age of 12. Sullivan has updated and expanded his comprehensive reference, covering both innovative and standard practices in children's services. Fundamentals such as collection development and management, programming, homework support, and reference and readers' advisory are all thoroughly updated. In response to pervasive changes in the field, he also

• Offers an expansive view of what it means to ensure that children are well-served in light of ongoing budgetary challenges
• Shows how to collaborate effectively with parents, teachers, and administrators, and how to cooperate with schools
• Gives techniques for using tools such as social media for marketing, outreach, and advocacy
• Addresses the subject of children and e-books
• Helps readers understand the importance of new cataloging trends, such as RDA: Resource Description and Access and RFID, and reference work in the digital age

Those studying to become children's librarians, experienced and new children's librarians, library administrators, and trustees alike will find Sullivan’s book a definitive guide to the fundamentals of children's services.

(book description)

Strengthening Teen Services Through Technology (manual and CD)

Young Adult Library Services Association. (2013). Young Adults Deserve the Best: Strengthening Teen Services through Technology. Chicago, IL: American Library Association.

Keeping up with the latest tech trends can be challenging for even the most determined library worker. This kit provides libraries with 1) resources to help library workers gain confidence in using tech resources with teens and 2) with specific tech tools that can easily be incorporated into library services for teens. Teens are an integral part of the community the library serves and key future supporters of the library. It is critical for libraries to stay relevant in teens’ lives, especially in technology. From gaming to apps to e-readers to smartphones, teens are constantly plugged into technology. Training modules include: technology and reading, technology and programming, technology in marketing, advocacy and outreach, emerging technological trends, online safety and digital literacy. Contributing authors include: Linda Braun, Shauntee Burns, Laura Pearle, Brenna Shanks and Chris Shoemaker.

This kit addresses the following areas in Competencies for Librarians Serving Youth: Leadership and Professionalism; Knowledge of Client Group; Communication, Marketing, & Outreach; Knowledge of Materials; Access to Information and Services.

This kit contains:

 1. Manual (binder-ready, three-hole punched and tabbed)

• Literature Review
• Instructions on how to use the modules
• 6 learning modules which contain:
• Introductory paper
• Module overview with key talking points and links to the YALSA Competencies
• Printout of the module’s  PowerPoint presentation with accompanying script
• Three optional activities to deepen participants’ understanding of the module’s  material
•  List of works consulted

2. CD with PowerPoint presentations and resources containing six learning modules on Strengthening Teen Services through Technology

Reading and Technology
This module examines the rise of eBooks, and looks at critical eBook issues including collection development, selection criteria, eBook vendors and circulation platforms.

Technology and Programming
This module discusses how libraries can incorporate technology into programming and includes recommended websites and resources for bringing technology into the library

Technology and Marketing, Advocacy and Outreach
This module looks at how technology can be incorporated into marketing, advocacy and outreach, and how to create and carry out a successful technology campaign in each area.

Technology and Online Safety
This module looks at how to talk with teens about online safety, including privacy and intellectual property.

Emerging Technologies
This module looks at what is currently emerging and how to keep up with emerging technologies.

Digital Literacy
This module looks at incorporating technology into digital literacy through using databases, search engines and social media.

(item description)

Multiethnic Books for the Middle-School Curriculum

Jones, Cherri, and J. B. Petty. Multiethnic Books for the Middle-School Curriculum. Chicago: ALA Editions, 2013.
ISBN: 978-0-8389-1163-1

Publisher's Description

Focusing on titles dealing with ethnic and religious groups both in the U.S. and around the world, this useful resource makes it easy for teachers and librarians working with middle-school children to infuse their curricular area with multicultural literature. Carefully vetted and annotated, it encompasses fiction and non-fiction published in the last decade, making it an ideal reference and collection development tool for schools and public libraries as well as for classroom teachers. Sharing their extensive knowledge of the subject, Jones and Petty

• Match selections to curricular areas such as health, language arts, performing arts, physical education, science and math, social studies, U.S. history, and visual arts
• Provide detailed annotations complete with summaries, evaluations and suggested age levels, perfect for quickly choosing a title for a book talk
• Include quick reference citations noting the specific group or cultural connection which is addressed, making it easy to find just the right title
• Offer a list of organizations, resources for educational standards, and helpful websites for additional research

Chosen for their attention to cultural issues and portrayals of multiethnic characters, the books highlighted in this resource are directly aligned to the curricular needs of children in grades 5-8.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments

Introduction

Chapter 1

Health

Decision Making

Diseases and Disease Prevention

Gangs and Bullying

Sexuality and Sex Roles

Chapter 2

Language Arts

Literature

Fantasy

Folklore

Realistic Fiction

Chapter 3

Performing Arts: Dance, Music, and Theater

Dance

Music and Theater

Chapter 4

Physical Education

Baseball

Basketball

Board Sports

Boxing

Martial Arts

Running

Other Sports

Chapter 5

Science and Mathematics

Astronomy and Earth Systems

Life Sciences and Chemistry

Mathematics

Physics

Scientific Inquiry

Chapter 6

Social Studies

World History

U.S. History

World Religions

Chapter 7

Visual Arts

Appendix A National Curriculum Standards

Appendix B Cultures

Appendix C Sources for Further Information on Multiethnic Literature

Index

 

Newbery and Caldecott Awards

Association for Library Service to Children. The Newbery and Caldecott Awards: A Guide to the Medal and Honor Books. 2013 ed. Chicago: ALA Editions, 2013. ISBN: 978-0-8389-3602-3

Publisher's Description

Updated to include the 2013 award and honor books, The Newbery and Caldecott Awards: A Guide to the Medal and Honor Books, 2013 Edition gathers together the books deemed most distinguished in American children's literature and illustration since the inception of the renowned prizes. Librarians and teachers everywhere rely on this guidebook for quick reference and collection development and also as a resource for curriculum links and readers' advisory. With an easy-to-use streamlined look and format, the 2013 guide features

• A new essay by Ellen Fader, former ALSC president, on the 75th anniversary of the Caldecott
• Explanations of criteria used to select the winners
• Updated bibliographic citations and indexes for the award winners

This perennial guide for locating information about the best in children's books is valuable for every collection.

Table of Contents

Preface

Newbery and Caldecott Awards: Authorization and Terms

75 Years of Tradition: What It Takes to Take on the Caldecott Award by Ellen Fader

The Newbery Awards: 2013–1922

The Caldecott Awards: 2013–1938

Author/Illustrator Index

Title Index

Mentoring & Managing Students in the Academic Library

Reale, Michelle. Mentoring & Managing Students in the Academic Library. ALA Editions, 2013. ISBN: 978-0-8389-1174-7

Description:
Most academic libraries could not operate without a host of part-time student workers.  But employing students is different from filling a professional position with an experienced worker; often their library employment will be their first job experience. Since many student positions make them the public face of the library, effective mentoring of such student employees is vital. In this book Reale explores the challenges and opportunities involved in recruitment. Her guide

• Shows how a library job can be more than just employment, teaching students important responsibilities and life-skills
• Covers the entire scope of a student’s tenure at an academic library, from bringing new hires on board and training them to disciplining student employees and the unpleasant but sometimes necessary task of firing
• Offers mentoring advice for helping students navigate the cultural contrasts, irregular hours, and other day-to-day issues faced by young people away from home for the first time

Catalogue 2.0

 

Chambers, Sally (ed.) Catalogue 2.0: The Future of the Library Catalogue. Neal-Schuman, 2013. ISBN: 978-1-55570-943-3.

Description
This timely book takes into account developments that influence catalogue potential and patrons’ needs, such as competition from popular websites like Facebook, Twitter, and Wikipedia, to provide an overview of the current state of the art of the library catalogue while looking ahead to see what the library catalogue might become. Key leaders in the field including Karen Calhoun, Lorcan Dempsey, Emmanuelle Bermès, and Marshall Breeding discuss cutting-edge issues such as

• Next generation catalogues
• Making search work for the library user
• Next-generation discovery: an overview of the European Scene
• The mobile library catalogue
• FRBRizing your catalogue
• Enabling your catalogue for the Semantic Web
• Supporting digital scholarship: bibliographic control, library co-operatives and open access repositories
• 13 ways of looking at libraries, discovery and the catalogue: scale, workflow, attention

Successful Social Networking in Public Libraries

Crawford, Walt. Successful Social Networking in Public Libraries.  Chicago: ALA, 2014. 302.30285 Crawf   ISBN 978-0838911679  

Most commentaries to date on library use of social networks such as Facebook and Twitter have focused on a handful of well-funded public libraries with high-profile employees. Now Crawford's book fills in the rest of the picture, offering for the first time an in-depth look at how a large variety of public libraries are using social networks. Examining nearly 6,000 libraries across the US, Crawford:

•  Analyzes social network usage by libraries of many different sizes and funding levels, showing how many of them are active and effective in quite different ways
•  Offers many examples that will help other libraries establish or refine their own social networking activities
•   Presents several key questions that libraries should ask themselves, such as "Who do we want to reach?" and "What's the best way to interact with communities?"
•    Gives libraries guidelines to set social networking goals and conduct ongoing evaluation
•  Includes illuminating comments from numerous librarians on the front lines of communication

Based on broad research, Crawford draws a vivid portrait that shows how a wide range of public libraries is conducting digital outreach and marketing through social networking.

Evaluating E-resources

Evaluating E-resources. SPEC kit 316. Association of Research Libraries, July 2010. 

Description:
This SPEC Kit re-examines the ways in which ARL member libraries have (re)structured themselves to identify the availability of new e-resources in the market; evaluate them as candidates for acquisition; decide to acquire/purchase the e-resources; evaluate them prior to their renewal to determine their continued utility; and publicize or market the new e-resources. Nearly identical questions were posed regarding purchases/licensing by consortia and by individual libraries, enabling comparisons in process to be made. It includes documentation from respondents in the form of e-resource selection policies, e-resource request and evaluation procedures, descriptions of library and consortia e-resource selectors, job descriptions, and promotional methods.

Table of Contents

Reconfiguring Service Delivery

Reconfiguring Service Delivery. SPEC Kit 327. Association of Research Libraries, December 2011.

Description:
This SPEC Kit investigates whether and how ARL member libraries have reconfigured staffed service delivery points in the main library and in any branches that report to the main library. It explores whether service points and/or branches have been added, closed, or consolidated; the drivers for those decisions; the impacts on staff; the changes in delivery methods; and whether there have been any collaborations with other institutions or consortia, or outsourcing of service delivery. It also explores user involvement in the planning for service changes and whether the effectiveness of new service configurations has been assessed. It includes documentation from respondents that describes the service philosophy, services offered, planning process, and communications about service changes. Also included are floorplans and images of redesigned spaces.

Table of Contents

Socializing New Hires

Socializing New Hires. SPEC Kit 323. Association of Research Libraries, August 2011.

Description:
This SPEC Kit investigates the progress made in ARL member organizations to establish or enhance socialization programs and activities (such as orientation programs, mentoring, residency appointments, and staff development sessions directed at organizational acculturation) for all newly hired, paid employees. It explores the availability and types of programs, activities, and resources currently offered in ARL institutions; staff involved in designing and coordinating socialization programs and activities; goals and budget for socialization programs; length of participation in programs and activities; evaluation and assessment of programs; and benefits of socialization programs, activities and resources. It includes documentation from respondents that describes orientation, mentoring, and peer socialization programs, and provides examples of orientation websites, orientation/socialization checklists, program evaluation methods, and staff development resources.

Table of Contents

Public Engagement

Public Engagement. SPEC Kit 312. Association of Research Libraries, September 2009.

Description

This SPEC Kit explores the ways in which traditional “outreach” programs in academic libraries are evolving to address the emergent concept of “public engagement” at the institutional level and the degree to which the library is integrated into campus-level efforts to promote public engagement. It includes documentation from respondents in the form of mission statements, descriptions of library engagement programs, examples of awards program, scholarship of engagement information, and job descriptions.

Table of Contents