Manager, Library Services University of Maryland Libraries
The COVID-19 pandemic and rising minimum wage prompted access services managers to delve deeper into data we were already collecting in order to better understand when and how the main library at the University of Maryland is used. This exploratory project involved gathering, reconciling, and identifying trends in hourly usage data from different systems, with the goal of maximizing what the library can offer with its current resources and to advocate for more funding, if needed. We will share our experience undertaking this work, discuss how we have and will apply this data, and offer suggestions for others interested in doing something similar at their institution. We hope this poster presentation will both aid and inspire other library managers to undertake similar work related to optimizing library hours, employee scheduling, and front-line staffing levels.