LibQUAL+™ in a consortium: KLN's challenges and considerations

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the experience of using the LibQUAL+™ library assessment suite in a statewide library consortium.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides anecdotal information about one consortium's experience implementing the LibQUAL+™ survey. It provides a description of the survey and a narrative of the Keystone Library Network's experience, and includes other information from published literature regarding the survey's implementation in other libraries and library consortia when relevant.

Findings

Implementing a library service quality survey as a consortium has benefits, but also provides challenges. Consortium‐wide planning, training, coordination, survey promotion, and intra‐consortium communication are important.

Practical implications

Consortia considering performing a library assessment will want to consider the challenges and considerations mentioned.

Originality/value

This paper provides information about, and suggestions for, implementing the survey in a consortium, differing from the existing body of literature that tends to focus on the instrument itself or on interpreting outcomes.

Citation

Garthwait, C. and Richardson, E.A. (2008), "LibQUAL+™ in a consortium: KLN's challenges and considerations", New Library World, Vol. 109 No. 11/12, pp. 499-511. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074800810921322