Evaluation

The "Library Training Guides" provide a series of concisely written summaries of the best principles and practice in specific areas of training by experts in the field. They are aimed at practising librarians and library training officers, and give an overview of what can be done in a given situation and in relation to a particular skill, group of library staff or type of library. Each publication in the series supplies working examples of best practice relating to training and staff development across the library and information profession. A key part of the management of libraries should involve the evaluation of every area of activity. The continuing pressure to provide value for money has made this process even more important. Staff training involves a heavy commitment of resources, and is justified because it is crucial in determining the quality of the services provided. Evaluation of training is therefore essential, both to ensure that resources are being used effectively, and to provide a qualitative measure of the activities involved. The process of evaluation is discussed and defined in this guide. the general principles of evaluation are applied to the specific processes involved in training. Throughout the guide emphasis is placed on good practice in the context of library and information science.