Research on public libraries exists in many silos. Data, reports and other materials based on the past 20 years of research are held in separate repositories, using different platforms. That makes it difficult to find, understand and use the data.
The iSchool’s Technology and Social Change Group (TASCHA) aims to solve that with its Research Roadmap for Strengthening the Library Field.
The project aims to bring the accumulated knowledge about public libraries into one easily accessible place. Designed to inform the future work of researchers and practitioners in the library field, the project will also develop guidelines for future research design, data collection and data publication.
This project is expected to help strengthen the library field by:
- Building a repository describing materials and data related to current and historical activities that are of high value for the library field.
- Creating targeted materials that highlight important findings and gaps identified in the body of research.
- Making an online platform that makes data not only accessible but usable.
The project will enable researchers to more effectively study the impact of libraries within communities and provide data on the effective use of resources to meet community needs.
Learn more about the project at TASCHA’s website.