Understanding our impact
Library Assessment uses research and data to understand what the University community needs from its libraries and whether services, spaces, and collections are meeting those needs. Our work guides decisions about where to focus, what to improve, and how to measure progress, so the Library can be responsive to the people it serves.
What do we do
From designing studies to setting metrics for Library initiatives, our work spans the full arc of an inquiry. We know where the data lives, how it connects, and how to make it useful.
User surveys
Designing and conducting surveys to understand user needs, satisfaction, and experiences with Library services, spaces, and collections.
Data collection and analysis
Gathering and analyzing data from across the Library to support evidence-based decisions.
Data visualizations and dashboards
Turning data into clear, accessible visualizations that make findings easy to read, share, and act on.
Institutional reporting
Contributing to ARL Statistics, ACRL surveys, accreditation requirements, and other external reporting.
Data management
Maintaining the systems and standards that keep Library data organized and reliable, including Tableau, Qualtrics, LibInsight, and web analytics.
Consulting and capacity building
Partnering with Library units to design assessment projects, build data literacy, and make the most of data the Library already collects.
Live dashboards
Public LibInsight dashboards, updated regularly. Each opens in a new tab.
Materials circulation, interlibrary loan, and website visits over time.
Instruction sessions, research consultations, and reference activity.
Building foot traffic, study-room use, and library events.
Guiding principles
Commitments that shape every project we take on.
Purpose-driven
We focus on questions that matter, not everything we can count.
User-centered
We begin with the experiences of the people the Library serves.
Representative
We design studies that reflect the full range of people the Library serves.
Rigorous
We use sound methods and report findings honestly.
Actionable
We pursue questions where findings will lead to meaningful change.
Transparent
We make our findings, methods, and data accessible to the people who need them.
Reports & Surveys
Learn more about our ongoing work and community impact. Explore our collection of reports to hear directly from our communities, see how UVA measures up among peer libraries, and dive into our collaborative consortia studies and special projects.
Surveys
What our communities tell us directly
ARL & Institutional reporting
How UVA measures up among peer libraries
Other reports
Consortial studies and special projects
Related work
Teams whose work connects closely with assessment and informs what we ask and learn. Each opens in a new tab.
User experience at UVA Library
How we study and design the experience of using the Library, in person and online.
Digital accessibility
Our program and strategic plan for making Library digital systems usable by everyone.
Library communications
How the Library shares news, evidence, and the impact of its work with its communities.