Improving a library workshop service: implementing change and enhancing the service based on data analysis

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to describe how one medical library implemented a new scheduling system, initiated data analysis and modified its regularly scheduled workshop program because of evidence-based decision-making. Academic libraries that struggle with workshop attendance may use this process as a model.

Design/methodology/approach

Workshop registration data analysis focused on registrants' affiliation, role and location, and how registrants learned of workshops. Workshop attendance data analysis focused on which workshops, days, times of the day and months had the highest attendance. The analysis led to changes in marketing and targeted scheduling of future workshops by the time of day, day of the week and month of the year.

Findings

Data collected for four years, fall 2018 – summer 2022 (12 semesters), shows a steady increase in the number of people attending library workshops. The increase in attendance and ROI experienced after the changes implemented at Ruth Lilly Medical Library (RLML) is significant as libraries often struggle with attendance, marketing and return on investment when offering ongoing educational workshops.

Originality/value

Many libraries offer ongoing workshops with low attendance. This article provides an example of how one library changed software and registration and implemented evidence-based decision-making related to scheduling which may have contributed to an increase in workshop attendance. Other academic libraries might consider adopting similar software and evidence-based decision-making to improve their library workshop service.

Citation

Stumpff, J.C. and Craven, H.J. (2023), "Improving a library workshop service: implementing change and enhancing the service based on data analysis", Reference Services Review, Vol. 51 No. 3/4, pp. 287-301. https://doi.org/10.1108/RSR-03-2023-0014