Register for Project Outcome | Compendium

Attention PA public library system & district administrators, district consultants and library directors:

Project Outcome was conceived, developed and launched by the Public Library Association (PLA) on June 26, 2015.  This online data collecting tool is available to all public libraries. Its purpose is to assist libraries in collecting data that will truly reflect the impact they have on their communities through outcome based evaluation.

As of October 31, 2015 Project Outcome has reported 546 registrants, representing 45 states and the District of Columbia. Of the public library participants, 153 libraries are already actively participating in the outcome measurement survey process.

Pennsylvania, as of today, has more public libraries participating than any other state. We congratulate and thank those Pennsylvania public libraries who have taken the first steps! But…we can do better!

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries is urging all public libraries that have not registered to visit the Project Outcome website and register today.
Our goal is 75% participation across the commonwealth. Visit the Project Outcome website to learn more: https://www.projectoutcome.org/ 

                                   A few of the basics: 

What is the goal of Project Outcome?
The goal of Project Outcome is to help public libraries understand and share the true impact of essential library services.

How is outcomes measurement different from other types of performance measurement?
Public libraries commonly measure services in terms of “how much we do,” focusing on the volume of outputs like the number of activities or services offered.
Project Outcome seeks to capture the benefits (or outcomes) of library services in terms of “what good we do.”

Why is measuring outcomes important for my library?
Measuring and understanding outcomes is important for a number of reasons.
At the most basic level, data about the impact of your library services provides insights you can use to:
1) demonstrate the value of those services
2) make plans to improve them, and
3) decide how to allocate limited resources.

How does Project Outcome work?
Project Outcome provides simple survey instruments that public library staff can use to help them measure the outcomes of their library services.

What does Project Outcome cost?
Nothing, it’s free.

If you have any questions please contact Beth Bibano.
Thank you for your time and have a safe holiday season!