A picture is worth a thousand words: Data visualization for collection assessment

While a number of presentations and webinars have talked about data visualization for library assessment in general, there have been few such presentations focusing on data visualization for collection assessment data. This presentation will focus on using data visualizations tools to tell meaningful stories about a number of library collection assessment projects. We will demonstrate how to visually analyze collection data by creating interactive dashboards using Tableau software. Examples of visualizations include 1) comparing usage of print monographs purchased through approval plan and discretionary order, 2) serials cancellation data, and 3) correlations among faculty citation, electronic usage, and impact factors. By using visualizations, librarians can better understand their data, and more effectively communicate stories with internal and external stakeholders. In addition to showcasing collection analysis visualizations, we will discuss practical steps librarians can take to include visualization techniques in their analysis. We also created and will share a template using Tableau that other libraries can use to duplicate our visualizations.