The University of Cincinnati Health Sciences Library (HSL) surveyed all first-year medical students about electronic books (eBooks) purchased for the first-year curriculum and conducted a usage analysis. The HSL wanted to determine the extent to which students use eBook versions if required for the curriculum or if they continue to use print versions, and to analyze eBook usability, ease of use, and overall student satisfaction.
In its recent strategic planning effort, the University of Cincinnati Libraries (UCL) identified assessment as one of five strategic directions. The overall goal is to “ensure library user input into decision making about collections, services, and facilities.” While UCL has participated in LibQUAL+ regularly since 2002, and conducted other studies, UCL’s Transforming the UC Library User Experience, Strategic Plan 2011-2014, places increased focus and importance on gathering information and data from and about our users to inform decisions. The presenters will share their experience developing an assessment plan for UCL and initial efforts in building a culture of assessment. The design, methodology and approach of two focused surveys, that are a part of our coordinated plan of assessment, will be shared.