What are the most important data analysis skills for library services professionals?

1 Data collection and management

One of the first steps in data analysis is to collect and manage data in a systematic and ethical way. Library services professionals need to know how to design and implement data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or usage statistics, that are appropriate for their research questions and goals. They also need to know how to store, organize, and document their data in a secure and accessible format, using tools such as spreadsheets, databases, or data management platforms. Data collection and management skills can help library services professionals ensure the quality, validity, and reliability of their data and comply with ethical and legal standards.

2 Data visualization and communication

Another important skill for data analysis is to visualize and communicate data in a clear and engaging way. Library services professionals need to know how to use data visualization tools, such as charts, graphs, maps, or dashboards, to present their data in a way that highlights key findings, patterns, and trends. They also need to know how to communicate their data analysis results to different audiences, such as users, staff, managers, funders, or partners, using appropriate formats, such as reports, presentations, infographics, or stories. Data visualization and communication skills can help library services professionals convey their data analysis insights and recommendations and advocate for their library services.

3 Data literacy and critical thinking

A third essential skill for data analysis is to have data literacy and critical thinking abilities. Data literacy is the ability to understand, interpret, and use data in a meaningful way. Critical thinking is the ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize data in a logical and objective way. Library services professionals need to have data literacy and critical thinking skills to be able to ask relevant and meaningful questions, identify and address data gaps and biases, compare and contrast different data sources and methods, and draw valid and actionable conclusions from their data analysis. Data literacy and critical thinking skills can help library services professionals enhance their decision making and problem solving skills and foster a culture of evidence-based practice in their libraries.

4 Data tools and techniques

Data analysis requires library services professionals to be familiar with various data tools and techniques. These can range from basic to advanced, depending on the type, complexity, and purpose of the data analysis. Descriptive statistics such as mean, median, mode, frequency, and percentage can help summarize and describe data. Inferential statistics such as correlation, regression, or hypothesis testing can test relationships and differences between data variables. Qualitative analysis such as coding, thematic analysis, or content analysis can identify and interpret patterns and themes in textual or audiovisual data. Data mining such as clustering, classification, or association rules can uncover hidden patterns and associations in large and complex data sets. Machine learning such as supervised, unsupervised, or reinforcement learning can create and train algorithms that learn from data and make predictions or recommendations. It is essential for library services professionals to understand how to choose the right data tools and techniques for their objectives and contexts, interpret their results properly, stay up-to-date with the latest trends in data tools and techniques, and learn new skills when necessary.

5 Data ethics and privacy

A fifth and crucial skill for data analysis is to be aware of and adhere to data ethics and privacy principles and practices. Data ethics and privacy are concerned with the moral and legal implications of collecting, using, and sharing data, especially personal or sensitive data, such as user information, preferences, or behavior. Library services professionals need to know how to protect the rights and interests of their data subjects and stakeholders, such as users, staff, or partners, and respect their consent, confidentiality, and anonymity. They also need to know how to comply with data ethics and privacy policies and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the Library Bill of Rights, and how to handle data breaches or incidents. Data ethics and privacy skills can help library services professionals maintain trust and reputation and uphold their professional values and standards.

6 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?