Creating and evaluating a subject‐based blog: planning, implementation, and assessment

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to outline the creation of a subject‐based blog and to suggest unique evaluation techniques for library blogs.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology involved an online survey, web tracking software, RSS feed tracking, and the use of blog search engines.

Findings

A successful blog was launched and statistics show a marked increase in visitors in the second semester when it was available.

Research limitations/implications

This article reports on a survey which is not statistically valid. The results, however, provide some insight into users of the blog.

Practical implications

The paper outlines several methods of evaluating library blogs and outlines successful planning for a library subject‐area blog.

Originality/value

The paper provides information about setting up a relevant information service, and using web tools to evaluate the success of the service.

Citation

Blair, J. and Level, A.V. (2008), "Creating and evaluating a subject‐based blog: planning, implementation, and assessment", Reference Services Review, Vol. 36 No. 2, pp. 156-166. https://doi.org/10.1108/00907320810873020