LibQUAL+™ in a consortium: KLN's challenges and considerations

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to share the experience of using the LibQUAL+™ library assessment suite in a statewide library consortium.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides anecdotal information about one consortium's experience implementing the LibQUAL+™ survey. It provides a description of the survey and a narrative of the Keystone Library Network's experience, and includes other information from published literature regarding the survey's implementation in other libraries and library consortia when relevant.FindingsImplementing a library service quality survey as a consortium has benefits, but also provides challenges. Consortium‐wide planning, training, coordination, survey promotion, and intra‐consortium communication are important.Practical implicationsConsortia considering performing a library assessment will want to consider the challenges and considerations mentioned.Originality/valueThis paper provides information about, and suggestions for, implementing the survey in a consortium, differing from the existing body of literature that tends to focus on the instrument itself or on interpreting outcomes.