Performance information for Scottish public library authorities: Constraints and progress

Abstract

Discusses the difficulties in trying to assess performance levels of public libraries and argues that indicators can only provide a useful tool for public librarians if the limitations of comparative analysis are recognized. Performance measurement has in the past suffered from a crude political concern with measurement and league tables. The Accounts Commission for Scotland has published its first “result” for Scottish Council Services and has been refreshingly honest about the limitations of these traditional performance indicators, arguing that while they are an important element of decision making in the policy process, they can never be a totally comprehensive or decisive factor. Suggests that authorities could seek to assist in developing a more representative set of indicators for the modern public library service.

Citation

Midwinter, A. and McVicar, M. (1996), "Performance information for Scottish public library authorities: Constraints and progress", Library Review, Vol. 45 No. 3, pp. 25-30. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242539610113049