How can you evaluate your outreach program for sustainability?

1 Define your objectives

Before you start evaluating your outreach program, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you will measure it. Your objectives should be SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, you might want to increase the number of library card holders, the attendance of online events, or the satisfaction of participants. You should also identify your target audience, your expected outcomes, and your indicators of success.

2 Choose your methods

There are different methods you can use to collect and analyze data about your outreach program, depending on your objectives, resources, and preferences. Some common methods are surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations, testimonials, and feedback forms. You should choose the methods that are most appropriate for your program's type, scope, and duration. You should also consider the validity, reliability, and ethics of your methods, and how you will protect the privacy and confidentiality of your data.

3 Plan your timeline

Evaluating your outreach program requires planning and coordination. You should decide when and how often you will collect and analyze data, and who will be responsible for each task. You should also consider the different stages of your program, such as the planning, implementation, and follow-up phases. You can use different types of evaluation for different purposes, such as formative evaluation to monitor and improve your program, or summative evaluation to assess and report your program's outcomes.

4 Communicate your results

The results of your evaluation can help you demonstrate your program's value, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and make informed decisions for future improvement. You should communicate your results to your stakeholders, such as your library staff, management, partners, funders, and participants. You should use clear and concise language, visual aids, and relevant examples to convey your findings and recommendations. You should also solicit feedback and suggestions from your stakeholders, and acknowledge their contributions and support.

5 Implement your changes

Based on your evaluation results and feedback, you should implement changes to enhance your program's sustainability. You should prioritize the most urgent and feasible changes, and allocate resources accordingly. You should also document and monitor your changes, and evaluate their effects on your program's performance. You should be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances and needs, and seek continuous improvement and innovation.

6 Celebrate your achievements

Evaluating your outreach program can be a rewarding and inspiring experience. You should celebrate your achievements and recognize your efforts and impact. You should also share your best practices and lessons learned with other libraries and organizations, and network with them to exchange ideas and collaborate. You should also thank and appreciate your participants and partners, and maintain your relationships with them. You should be proud of your outreach program and its contribution to your library and community.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?