Developing a Roadmap: A Multiyear Assessment Plan at a Public Research University

This paper will provide a roadmap for those new to academic library assessment to aid in the development of a multiyear academic library assessment plan. The authors—the newly hired Assessment and User Experience Librarian and her supervisor, the Associate Dean for Academic Engagement and Public Services at Wichita State University (WSU) Libraries—will draw from their own experience of developing an academic library assessment plan. The roadmap—a set of recommendations for the development of an assessment plan—draws from the authors’ experience, referencing WSU or WSU Libraries when providing background, context, evidence, or examples. Four sources informed the development of the plan: (1) current LIS literature with a focus on topics such as assessment of student learning outcomes and facilities use; (2) guidance from WSU Libraries’ new Dean of Libraries based on his experience; (3) current priorities in the University Libraries; and (4) the mission, vision, values, and goals of Wichita State University. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by emphasizing the significance of aligning library assessment with what is needed and wanted by members of the university administration to support the institution’s mission, vision, values, and goals. Although both authors had some knowledge and experience with gathering and analyzing data, neither had worked in a library with a particularly robust culture of assessment. This roadmap provides an opportunity for those in similar circumstances to benefit from the practical insights of the authors’ experience.