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
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 
