Tuesday at the 2011 Military Libraries Workshop included many informative sessions. Here are a few things that stood out from the programs today:
- You need evidence of the library’s value. Don’t use the wrong kind of proof of value such as:
- Inputs (resource counts)
- outputs (user counts)
- satisfaction
- service quality
- librarian time and effort
None of these things make a difference to the overarching purpose of our organizations. Library value is really all about outcome. What difference do you make to the user? (Dr. Megan Oakleaf, Syracuse University: The Value of the Military Libraries)
- The question is not – how good is the library? It is: How much good does the library do? (Dr. Megan Oakleaf, Syracuse University: The Value of the Military Libraries)
- This is not business as usual. This is a national reframing of library value. (Dr. Megan Oakleaf, Syracuse University: The Value of the Military Libraries)
- See the importance of being a positive influence. Remember that connectivity is key. (MG (Sel) Joe Ward: JFSC Commandant’s Welcome)
- What can military libraries do to assist with the Veterans History Project?
- Promote VHP as a research tool and project
- interview vets in your organization
- interview the veteran in your life
Here’s the link to the field kit on how to participate in the Veterans History Project – http://www.loc.gov/vets/kit.html (Robert Patrick, Director, Veterans History Project: Veterans History Project)
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