Library Planning Research,  Space Planning,  work in progress

Quality and Assessment – Case Study LibQUAL+ and ACA’s Visual Scan

VISUAL SCAN© SPACE AUDIT

 

 

LibQUAL+® is a suite of services that libraries use to solicit, track, understand and act upon users’ opinions of service quality.

 

The Visual Scan© Space Audit assessment tool has been used successfully along with LibQUAL+®. The Space Audit addresses the potential of the library space as an untapped resource. The Space Audit is most appropriate when space reorganization and major renovation are involved.

 

Symptoms of a poor library space are unexpected dysfunctions, poor quality of space and lack of performance in terms of collection content, seating and learning spaces. The goals of the Visual Scan© Space Audit are to:

 

·         Provide quality learning spaces.

·         Identify best practices in library planning by providing space standards.

·         Enhance library staff members’ skill in evaluating the current space environment.

·         Aid in developing strategic plans.

·         Understand how to reorganize and restructure the library environment.

·         Develop skills in optimal placement of functions in a given space.

·         Align strategic plans and case statements for project funding. 

 

In an actual case study at Duquesne University’s Gumberg Library, a LibQUAL+® assessment was conducted, followed by a Space Audit that addressed ways to improve space dysfunction. A second LibQUAL+® assessment showed major service improvements.

 

For more information regarding LibQUAL+®, see:  www.libqual.org

 

For more information regarding the Visual Scan© Space Audit, see: http://www.acohen.com