Can an understanding of data use in academic libraries assist in public service efforts?. Issue 1 (2nd January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Watson, Carrie A.
• Is Part Of: Public services quarterly. Volume 17:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 59
• Page End: 64
• Publication Date: 2021-01-02
• Subjects: Academic libraries -- library data; Public services (Libraries) -- United States -- Periodicals; 025.5
• DOI: 10.1080/15228959.2020.1860861
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1522-8959

Abstract

Abstract: More research is needed on data analytics projects in smaller academic libraries. Every academic library generates its own data, gathers that data, manages the storage of that data, and even may contribute it to a larger body of institutional data. This data could include digital data, reference data, circulation data, and instruction data. As data use becomes more prevalent at the higher educational level, academic libraries must navigate between using their library generated data to assist in meeting larger institutional goals and the library's foundational values of privacy and confidentiality. The more academic libraries are able to partner with their host institutions, the more accountability will be had in future data analytics projects. The more libraries are attuned to their own data use, the more they are able to better serve their faculty, students, and host institutions.