Library and information resources planning activities support teaching and learning functions by facilitating the research and scholarship of students and faculty. Related evaluation processes regularly assess the quality, accessibility, and use of libraries and other information resource repositories and their services to determine the level of effectiveness in support of the educational program.

• Millar Library: Planning and Evaluation

Planning (External)

The University Librarian discusses policy with administrators in Academic Affairs, the deans at the Council of Academic Deans, and other administrators and faculty. Assistant University librarians collaborate with administrators, faculty, and students on a variety of activities and initiatives, including accreditation, student retention, scholarly communication, information services and resources, and issues associated with teaching and learning. Librarians participate in a campus network that facilitates planning, and makes the Library an essential partner in the University’s instructional and scholarly objectives.

Planning is conducted regularly in the Millar Library on several levels. Strategic issues are examined in the Administrative Council by the university librarian, the assistant university librarians for Public Services and for Technical Services, the Systems librarian, and the executive assistant to the university librarian. Three separate councils review issues related specifically to public services, technical services, and information resources management.

Assessment

Assessing information services and resources has become a strategic priority in the Millar Library, directed by an assessment coordinator. A standard assessment for academic libraries was conducted to provide data on utilization of services and resources. Faculty and students provided critical feedback via LibQUAL. Several changes have been implemented in response. Additionally, assessment scenarios are integrated into the classes prepared and taught by librarians. Feedback is used to improve Instructional Services. A "culture of assessment" is being integrated into the library's organizational culture.

Strategic Planning

Strategic planning has not been formally conducted in the Millar Library for about ten years, and librarians occasionally struggle to determine relative or strategic priorities. What is strategically important to one librarian may not be to another. A degree of confusion on priorities exists, creating occasional problems in relation to implementation. Planning is conducted in several forums, but an overall strategic planning process needs to be conducted. The new university librarian is likely to initiate a strategic planning process. Strategic planning will provide a useful context to inform library activities and priorities.