Closing the Loop: Building a Culture of Assessment in Academic Libraries

Abstract

Library assessments are used to inform others of the library’s value to the community and to assist in decision-making. In some instances, those conducting the assessment are not those who are describing the library’s value or making decisions. In these instances, a final assessment step is to close the loop of assessment. This article examines the assessment and user experience literature for insights on how library employees can close the loop on library assessments. It suggests the next steps employees may take after completing an assessment that results in library improvement.