Measuring the academic library: Translating today’s inputs and outputs into future impact and value

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an Australian perspective of impact and value by examining how the broader international and national perspectives play out in practice in the Australian context and where adaption for local requirements is necessary.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper will explore the assessment of impact and value in academic libraries and the tools available to translate today’s inputs into future impact and value. It will focus on a range of methods and procedures, including international and national standards, frameworks and benchmarks.

Findings

The La Trobe University Library is presented as a case study to examine the challenges of leveraging tools to assess impact and communicate the value of the library across the university community.

Originality/value

Assessing the impact and demonstrating the value of the academic library in a digital environment is a constant challenge. While usage and service data are plentiful, traditional metrics no longer sufficiently demonstrate the academic library’s contribution to university learning, teaching and research outcomes.

Citation

Salisbury, F. and Peasley, J. (2018), "Measuring the academic library: Translating today’s inputs and outputs into future impact and value", Information and Learning Sciences, Vol. 119 No. 1/2, pp. 109-120. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILS-07-2017-0068