“Check This Out”: Assessing Customer Service at the Circulation Desk

Abstract

The access services staff at Milner Library, Illinois State University, designed a customer service assessment to evaluate how effectively the department was carrying out its mission statement. Areas of assessment included the department's waiting times, helpfulness, and courtesy. The assessment activity focused on circulation services, which is the library's service point reaching the greatest number of patrons. The staff created a survey instrument collaboratively, distributed in paper and electronic format for a week. Results suggested that the department provides prompt and helpful service but has areas of improvement for courtesy. The department adapted customer service training for staff and student assistants.