Posted on behalf of PLA.  If you have any questions about the following information please contact PLA.

PLA launches Benchmark, a new tool for data-driven planning and advocacy in public libraries 

Benchmark: Library Metrics and Trends provides libraries with data visualizations and peer comparisons that can help libraries plan, make informed decisions, and tell the story of their impact. Through Benchmark, library workers have access to a centralized collection of their library data, including PLA survey data, Public Libraries Survey data (reported to the Institute of Museum and Library Services), and Census data. All libraries have free access to open surveys, their survey responses, and select summary data. Subscribers have access to a full suite of data dashboards and customized comparison tools that are interactive and user-friendly. Log into Benchmark at librarybenchmark.org. Register for a free webinar, Introducing Benchmark: Library Metrics and Trends, to be held on Nov. 8, 2021, at 1:00 PM Central to learn more.  

2021 Public Library Staff and Diversity Survey 

All public libraries are invited to complete this new survey to help us better understand public library staff roles, hiring and retention practices, and equity, diversity, and inclusion work. The survey was developed by PLA’s Measurement, Evaluation, and Assessment Committee in response to field-wide discussions and demand for actionable data about evolving staff roles and diversity and inclusion efforts. Log into your library’s Benchmark account to complete the survey. The survey deadline is Dec. 10, 2021. (All US public library directors should have received an invitation with login details; if your library did not, please contact plabenchmark@PROTECTED.)