The Research Institute for Public Libraries (RIPL) opens their thought-changing, practice-expanding data conference experience to any who are interested in taking their library’s data to the next level. Curriculum from the RIPL 2020 national event is offered in a free webinar series this winter. These are NOT webinars spent listening and multi-tasking. Instead, participants must come ready to engage and interact in a variety of learning activities, some of which will occur in small groups in breakout rooms.

January 27 (12:00-1:30 CT): Observations: Data Hiding in Plain Sight Data is available anywhere you are! Participants learn about the purpose of observation, its strengths and limitations for library needs, and guidelines for conducting observations.

February 2 (12:00-1:30 CT): Can You Hear Me Now? Communicating Data to Stakeholders Try out the approaches, templates and engage in ideas to test what may apply for your specific situation. Learn to ask the three key questions about measures and data: What? So What? and Now What?

February 23 (12:00-1:30 CT): Nothing for Us, Without Us: Getting Started with Culturally Responsive Evaluation Dr LaShaune Johnson introduces the field of Culturally Responsive and Equitable Evaluation (CREE) and participants explore the different kinds of community engagement and when to employ each method. Help create a welcoming space where community members see their culture, values, and lived experiences reflected in the library programing and collections.  Learn to establish an environment where the community is excited to contribute to transparent and collaborative program evaluations.

March 2 (1:00-2:30 CT): Meaningful Metrics for Your Organization Covering metrics selection criteria, metrics hierarchies, attributes of good metrics, and final questions to ask to ensure that the metrics selected will benefit the organization as intended. It will also address metrics reporting frequencies and present a simple, yet effective, dashboard model. Learn what to look for when analyzing metrics and interpreting metrics.

March 16 (1:00-2:30 CT): Evaluation + Culture = Change This session provides a brain-based framework for understanding resistance to change, particularly when it comes to evaluation. It considers change management fundamentals and provides basic strategies to use to foster culture change at your organization.

Go to https://ripl.lrs.org/ripl-data-boot-camp/ to learn more about each webinar and to register. Each session includes a 90-minute live webinar and a 60-minute recorded follow-up lesson for anyone who is interested in learning more about the topic. These webinars will be recorded.