Using Evidence-Based Principles in an Academic Library to Increase Institutional Effectiveness: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

In the column below, the author discusses the process of developing an evidence-based principle working document as a benchmarking technique to measure institutional effectives in an academic library setting. This preliminary study examines the process of developing a best practices procedure that supports academic involvement in institutional learning. The author presents data and commentary on the process of applying learning analytics practices to develop behavioral and academic interventions to improve library management and to impact student success. Library learning analytics projects and research have grown out of administrative pressure to demonstrate returns on investments and a desire to confirm which library practices and resources contribute to institutional priorities and impact student learning. The study outlines benchmarking techniques implemented to measure performance and demonstrate the library’s contributions to the academic learning process. This study includes potential considerations for library leaders and library staff as a result of changing practices and environments. The author’s conclusions discuss how academic library services, expertise and resources contribute to desired outcomes of faculty support and student success.