Engaging with Your Users: Informal Library Assessment

Oklahoma State University Library- StillwaterEngaging with Your Users: Informal Library Assessment1Informal AssessmentFairly quick and easy to conductMinimal resources required

ASKLISTENWATCH

THEN ACTBrown, J. M. (2010). Informal Assessment for Library Middle Managers. Library Leadership & Management, 24(1), 18-22.ACT2Library Listening SessionsTiming; Respect their scheduleTwo-way communication exchange DemonstrateLISTEN!Be flexibleIf you feed them

3Wording the Invitation1st Email Invitation for SG: Free Lunch and Library Listening Session2nd EmailReminder: Lunch & Library Listening Session, Wed. 11:30Always Include:PurposeDate, Time, PlaceCatererInformalityExpected AttendanceMy contact information

4 2006 - 201024 Sessions; 168 students, 3 advisorsAverage Attendance = 7Cost, approx. $10.00/person. (Library Friends) Ongoing GroupsNew Groups

Including Group AdvisorsObtaining Names and Email Addresses

5Some ResultsHoursPrinting IssuesCommunication MethodsCollection NeedsSignage SuggestionsNew relationships and information avenues

Demonstrated new or trial databasesDemonstrated integrated search systemPromoted public programs

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Benefits and ChallengesEducational for both!They truly appreciate the opportunity to provide input.Helps us make evidence-based decisions

Challenges:SchedulingFeedback Loop

7Questions?Karen Neurohr, Associate Professor, Assessment LibrarianOklahoma State University Librarykaren.neurohr@okstate.edu 405.744.2376

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