From Measurement to Management: Using Data Wisely for Planning and Decision-Making

Abstract

The wise use of data, information, and knowledge in planning, decision-making, and management can improve library performance. While libraries have long collected data, however, it is only recently that they have begun to use it effectively in library management. This article provides an overview of data use in libraries, organizational barriers, and support issues, as well as examples of libraries that have successfully integrated data acquisition, analysis, and application into management.