Measuring for Results: The Dimensions of Public Library Effectiveness

by Joseph R. Matthews

Overview

Librarians have historically relied on the perceived value or goodness of the public library as a means to garner financial support. Yet it is now becoming apparent that public libraries must demonstrate, using an acceptable methodology, the economic value of the library and its services. A compendium of valuable information about the research and literature surrounding this issue of demonstration, this book reviews the various approaches that have been used in assessing the public library's value.

Matthews suggests methods for a library to develop better means of communicating with their funding decision-makers and other stakeholders. By analyzing input, process, and output measures, and combining these with measures of the economic and social benefits produced by the library, he offers a portfolio of approaches that enable today's librarian to both measure effectiveness and to communicate its value to its stakeholders—the communities it serves.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781591581000
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	11/30/2003
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.53(d)

About the Author

JOSEPH R. MATTHEWS is an internationally renowned on library automation and information systems, and president of his consulting company, Matthews and Associates, Carlsbad, California.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Grail of Goodness
Mission, Values, Vision, and Strategy
Public Library Users
Input, Process, and Output Measures
Social Benefits
Economic Benefits
Putting It All Together
Communicating Value
Appendix A: Input Measures, Process Measures, Outcome Measures, and Satisfaction-Based Outcome Measures
Appendix B: Toolbox Performance Measures and Indicators
Appendix C: List of Quality-Oriented Performance Indicators
Index