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Gathering Data Like a Researcher: Simple Ways to Gather Feedback from Your Community and Colleagues In-Person
Library-wide reports and analytics tell us what’s happening — but sometimes we also need to know why. That’s where everyday feedback methods come in.
This workshop is designed for staff who want to gather input from patrons or colleagues in practical, approachable ways. We’ll cover when to use surveys (and when not to), how to run a small focus group, and quick methods like comment boards or observations. You’ll also learn how to plan a simple “protocol,” keep ethics and privacy in mind, and handle common concerns like anonymity and follow-through.
The skills you gain will complement the larger system-wide data work already being done by providing the on-the-ground insights that help explain the stories behind the numbers.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Recognize when to use surveys, focus groups, conversations, or informal methods.
- Create a simple plan for gathering and organizing feedback.
- Write effective, unbiased questions that encourage honest responses.
- Apply ethical practices like consent, confidentiality, and managing expectations.
- Turn both patron and staff input into clear themes and actionable insights.
Please register by Nov 12 via training@smrla.org .
- Date:
- Thursday, November 20, 2025
- Time:
- 9:15am - 12:15pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- Outside LBPD/MSLA
- Sponsor:
- Southern Maryland Regional Library Association (SMRLA)
- Audience:
- Library Staff Library Staff - Public Libraries
- Categories:
- Communication Community Engagement
This training is being held in person at the SMRLA Staff Development Center in Charlotte Hall.