Evaluation tools are an essential part of improving service and proving the library's value. This easy-to-understand how-to outlines the use of five of the most important and popular methods of evaluation: Each chapter includes step-by-step guidance for defining goals, staffing the project, developing a timeline, collecting data, analyzing findings, and sharing results. The five different methods are illustrated with real-world examples, showing what libraries evaluated and how findings helped change their organization. Invaluable managerial tools, including checklists, forms, worksheets, and more — all reproducible from the CD-ROM — help you implement the methods easily and effectively. Managers in all types of libraries will find this an informative and practical resource for improving their organization.

This book/CD-ROM guide to results-oriented library evaluation explains the most important and popular assessment techniques in straightforward language and gives step-by-step instructions for performing evaluation studies. Part I of the guide prepares readers by examining related management theory, looking at assessment in today's environment of social, economic, and technological change. Part II details five core methods (needs assessment, quality improvement, benchmarking, library performance standards, and outcomes measurement) and their real-world applications, and illustrates them with real-life examples. The workbook found at the end of each chapter is also reproduced on the accompanying CD-ROM. Part III covers methods for data collection, analysis, and presentation. The CD-ROM also contains supporting materials not found in the book, a glossary, and a list of recommended readings with links to web sites. Dudden is the Health Sciences Librarian and Library Sciences Director at the National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)