Using civic data
What's the need?
Civic data can help libraries to better understand the communities they serve and, in turn, make more informed decisions about collections, staff, and programming.
Why the library?
Libraries are already data-driven organizations and collect internal data on how collections and spaces are used.
If the library is advocating for the importance of civic data it is vital to demonstrate its importance at home.
What you can do:
Use Census data to create demographic profiles of the communities you serve; consider languages spoken, education levels, income, and employment
Incorporating civic data into reporting can model great open data practices for patrons and the broader community.
Consult state or municipal open data for data sources that can help you make your case for an upcoming grant or new library initiative.
Inspiration:
Topeka, KS: Mirza Sharma, D. (2016). Using GIS to Assess Public Libraries . Public Libraries Online.
Resources you can use:
The Research Institute for Public Libraries (RIPL) offers trainings and conferences for public libraries who want to use civic data
Hertel, K., & Sprague, N. (2007). GIS and census data: Tools for library planning. Library Hi Tech, 25(2), 246-259.
Adkins, D., & Sturges, D. (2004). Library service planning using GIS and census data. Public Libraries, 43(3), 165-170
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