How do you choose the best information literacy assessment tool for your library?

1 Define your goals

Before you select an assessment tool, you need to define your goals and objectives. What do you want to measure and why? Who are your target audience and what are their needs and expectations? How will you use the results to improve your services and programs? Having clear and specific goals will help you narrow down your options and align your assessment with your library's mission and vision.

2 Review the standards

Information literacy is not a static concept, but a dynamic and evolving one. There are different standards and frameworks that define the core competencies and outcomes of information literacy, such as the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education, the AASL Standards for the 21st-Century Learner, and the SCONUL Seven Pillars of Information Literacy. You should review these standards and choose the ones that best suit your context and goals. They will provide you with a common language and a benchmark for your assessment.

3 Explore the options

There are many types of information literacy assessment tools available, such as tests, surveys, rubrics, portfolios, interviews, focus groups, and observations. Each tool has its own strengths and limitations, depending on the purpose, scope, and level of your assessment. You should explore the options and compare them based on their validity, reliability, feasibility, and usability. You should also consider the cost, time, and resources required to implement them. Some tools are free and ready to use, such as the SAILS Test, the TRAILS Test, and the Project SAILS Toolkit. Others require customization and adaptation, such as the iSkills Test, the RAILS Project, and the VALUE Rubrics.

4 Involve the stakeholders

Information literacy assessment is not a solo activity, but a collaborative one. You should involve the stakeholders in your assessment process, such as your patrons, colleagues, administrators, faculty, and partners. They can provide you with valuable feedback, insights, and support. They can also help you disseminate and apply the results of your assessment. You should communicate with them regularly and transparently, and seek their input and participation. You should also respect their privacy and confidentiality, and follow the ethical principles and guidelines of your institution and profession.

5 Evaluate the results

Once you have chosen and implemented an information literacy assessment tool, you need to evaluate the results and interpret them critically. You should analyze the data and look for patterns, trends, gaps, and challenges. You should also compare the results with your goals and standards, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of your information literacy instruction and services. You should report the results clearly and accurately, and use them to inform your decision making and planning. You should also share the results with your stakeholders and celebrate your achievements.

6 Improve your practice

Information literacy assessment is not a one-time event, but a continuous cycle. You should use the results of your assessment to improve your practice and enhance your impact. You should reflect on your assessment process and identify what worked well and what could be improved. You should also revise your goals and objectives, and adjust your strategies and methods accordingly. You should also seek new opportunities and challenges, and keep up with the latest trends and developments in information literacy. You should also monitor and document your progress and outcomes, and repeat the assessment periodically.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?