Articulating Value: Building a Culture of Assessment in the Special Collection of the UP ISSI Library
Pondering the value of the library collection is an integral part of the collection management process (Middleton, 2007). Establishing the effectiveness of information resources is the cornerstone of information management, requiring an assessment of how these resources support the organization’s mission.
The special collection of the UP Institute for Small-Scale Industries (ISSI) Library is a distinctive signifier of its Institution’s unwavering commitment to the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country. As this collection is becoming increasingly apparent, it is essential to articulate how these rare and unique materials connect to the greater extension service unit of UP and entrepreneurs’ development and lifelong learning. Articulating a value proposition, in this context, is based on purposeful activities that make use of evidence-based practices. Part of the value proposition is articulating the extent to which the special collection of the library can help the Institute partner with other organizations in building a collective body of knowledge focusing on MSMEs.
Meaningful Assessment
Conceived in 2024, the assessment activity of the library’s special collection was grounded in shared best practices and structured methods such as the Conspectus to map subject strengths and weaknesses, and tailored to address the concerns of the Institute that include alignment of strengths and activities against the UP ISSI Mandate (Republic Act 6041). Through this purposeful activity that employs evidence-based practices, the Institute can establish demonstrable evidence on how it is becoming a good steward of these fruits of intellectual labor of the UP ISSI staff housed in its library.
Knowing What We Have
The collection assessment process commenced with generating data from a holistic perspective. This activity delves into analyzing various aspects of the special collection that include the subject coverage, formats, and the overall suitability for the intended clients. Understanding the gaps and strengths of the special collection is the core element to quantifiably articulate value.
Looking Towards the Future, Purposefully
The true worth of the library’s special collection can be measured by understanding how the UP ISSI staff, including the researchers, use the access tools devised by the library. Thus, a service assessment is intended to be conducted in conjunction with this collection assessment to gather demonstrable evidence of how the special collection and services contribute to the realization of the UP ISSI mandate.
To put it succinctly, building a culture of assessment is one of the best library practices that provides a sense of direction and embraces improvements needed to leverage the library’s special collection for the greatest impact (Carter, 2012).