Big Data, Bigger Stories? The Journey from Data to Impact in Public Libraries

Abstract Data storytelling serves as a powerful tool for public libraries to move from measurement to demonstrating impact. This article reports findings from an exploratory focus group conducted at the Austin Public Library followed by individual interviews with 11 staff members from six large urban public library systems. The data demonstrates that libraries have made progress in data management and public narrative, particularly in short-term goals such as data-informed decision-making, promoting special programs, or securing funding. But the data also indicates that public libraries have room to grow in terms of identifying and articulating main narratives that define the library’s mission and long-term value. These main narratives are critical for guiding internal operations and strengthening connections with the external communities that public libraries serve. Public libraries are still facing a long journey from big data to bigger and more impactful stories. The data from these librarians offers broader insights for the field about how to translate data into narratives that demonstrate how public libraries work to serve the public good.