About

What is RIPL?

RIPL – the Research Institute for Public Libraries – was launched in 2015 by the Colorado State Library (CSL) and the Colorado Library Consortium (CLiC) as a national, one-of-a-kind event for public librarians and others interested in public library data and evaluation. In this immersive, bootcamp-style event, participants learn practical, strategic methods of gathering, analyzing, and using data for planning, management, and communicating impact. The next national event will take place in Atlanta, Georgia in summer 2018.

What is the RIPL Community of Practice?

The RIPL Community of Practice is an online meeting place freely available to anyone interested in public library data and evaluation (this space is NOT limited to RIPL participants). It features forums, a file-sharing space, and a quarterly webinar series.

What is the RIPL Regional?

RIPL Regionals are scaled-down, state/regional versions of the national boot camp (50 participants, 2 days, 3 instructors). See https://www.ripleffect.org/ for 2017 and 2018 locations and other details. Interested in offering a RIPL Regional? Please contact Linda Hofschire for more information.

Who are RIPL participants?

RIPL participants work in public libraries and are:

  • interested in getting started 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, and
  • eager to develop a peer network to support research and evaluation efforts.

People who work with public libraries (state library and consortium staff, consultants, researchers, etc.) are also encouraged to attend and participate in the community of practice.

Who are the RIPL Speakers?

The RIPL Regionals feature three core speakers:

  • Linda Hofschire, the Director of the Colorado State Library’s Library Research Service.
  • Rochelle Logan, a Research Trainer and Consultant.
  • Sharon Morris, the Director of Library Development at the Colorado State Library.

The National events include a wide range of additional speakers who are experts in data and evaluation.

How can I connect with others about public library data and evaluation?

In addition to joining the community of practice, you can sign up for PL-EVAL, a mailing list where you can ask questions, share ideas, and learn from experiences across the field.