Benchmark 101: Become a Data-Informed Library

Benchmark: Library Metrics and Trends features interactive data visualizations that allow libraries to easily compare themselves to peers in areas such as library programs, services, and operations. Learn how Benchmark can support your library in everyday decision-making.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Benchmark’s interactive and user-friendly data dashboards and reporting tools for public library subscribers. These tools make it easy to compare your library’s data to peer and national reference points, using data sourced from PLA annual surveys, the IMLS Public Libraries Survey, and the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. PLA staff and member leaders will share examples of how libraries can use the data to unlock insights about performance, demonstrate value, and increase community impact.

Benchmark offers both free and subscription levels of access. This webinar focuses on the features available to subscribers. More information about Benchmark is available on the PLA website.

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of this on-demand webinar, participants will be able to:

• Use Benchmark to help with planning, decision-making, and advocacy;
• Know what benchmarking is and how to make effective peer comparisons;
• Use the Benchmark tool’s data and interactive features; and
• Understand how other libraries have used Benchmark to support their goals.

Who Should Attend

This on-demand webinar is relevant to public library directors, administrators, and managers responsible for data collection and analysis. However, staff from any level within their organizations are welcome to attend to learn more about Benchmark.

Panelists

Lynn Hoffman (she/her) is deputy director at the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey. In addition to having been a frequent instructor for the Research Institute for Public Libraries (RIPL), she has served multiple terms as a member of PLA’s Measurement, Evaluation, and Assessment Advisory Group and been involved with PLA data work since 2013.

Sara Goek (she/her) is project manager, data and research with the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) and the Public Library Association (PLA), divisions of the American Library Association (ALA). She supports data-related initiatives, including the annual surveys, Benchmark, and Project Outcome. Sara holds a PhD in history/digital arts and humanities from University College Cork.

Katina Jones (she/her) is the program manager for evaluation and assessment at the Public Library Association (PLA). She supports PLA's data tools, annual topical surveys, and other data and evaluation work. Katina started her library career working as the state data coordinator at the Missouri State Library, followed by nearly nine years as the data analyst at one of that state's largest suburban public libraries.