Research Institute for Public Libraries
December 14-16, 2020

RIPL began in 2015 as an immersive, bootcamp-style event for public library staff to learn practical methods for gathering, analyzing, and using data for planning, management, and communicating impact. Now, after 3 national events and more than 25 regional events, it’s time for the next wave.

The RIPL 2020 virtual event will NOT be your typical online conference or webinar. Instead, it will provide the immersive learning experience that RIPL events have come to be known for, with interactive sessions that include application and discussion, and opportunities to form connections with other library staff interested in data and evaluation. So, although the event will be recorded, participants will get the most out of it if they attend the live event instead of only watching the recordings.

During the event, participants will be able to participate in four breakout sessions. To enhance the learning experience, breakout sessions will have an accompanying pre-recorded session (approximately 30-60 minutes long). These pre-recorded sessions will cover foundational material, so that we can maximize the time during the live sessions for immersive learning, discussion, and application. They will be available at least one month prior to the event. Accompanying pre-recorded sessions may be suggested application activities for participants to complete ahead of time, so that they can be discussed during the live sessions.

RIPL participants work in public libraries and are …

interested in using data for savvy and strategic planning.
looking for both inspiration and instruction in a hands-on, participatory environment.
seeking to learn about outcomes and how to measure library impact.
committed to leading their organizations in making data-based decisions.
eager to develop a peer network to support research and evaluation efforts.