Info Tech and Public Libraries: The Edge Coalition Releases “Edge Benchmarks 1.0”

If required, a bit of background about Edge along with some additional resources.
If not needed, here’s a direct link to the new benchmarks document (15 pages; PDF).
What is the Edge Initiative? (via LibraryEdge.org)

Launched in March 2011, the Edge initiative is led by a coalition of leading library and local government organizations to develop a suite of tools that support continuous improvement and reinvestment in public technology.
Edge will help library leaders:

• Assess the public computers in their libraries and how they are being used
• Identify ways to strengthen or enhance public technology, and
• Communicate with key leaders on the value of the library’s computers for supporting a skilled workforce and employment, the educational needs of students, and more.

Edge helps library leaders engage staff and local government officials in understanding how public access technology can achieve community goals, demonstrates where the library stands in relation to their peers, and identifies new ways of conducting business through best practices.

The Edge Initiative is Supported by Members of the Edge Coalition (via LibraryEdge.org)
Its Members:

• ALA OITP
• The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
• California State Library
• International City/County Management Association
• Lyrasis
• OCLC
• Oklahoma Department of Libraries
• PLA
• TechSoup Global
• Texas State Library and Archives Commission
• University of Maryland, Information Policy & Access Center
• University of Washington Information School
• Urban Libraries Council

What are the Edge Benchmarks All About? (via LibraryEdge.org)

Strengthened with feedback received from the library field, the Edge Benchmarks will help libraries improve and enhance public access technology services in communities. This voluntary, self-assessment program will help library leaders engage staff and local government officials by demonstrating how public access technology helps achieve community goals. In addition, it gives libraries the flexibility to grow and plan for the future.

Direct to Edge Benchmarks 1.0 (15 pages; PDF)

Additional Info

A Brief Intro to the Benchmarks
“Edge Benchmarks Debut” (via PLA)
Evaluate and continually improve public technology services with the Edge Benchmarks (via TechSoup for Libraries)
Initiative Homepage

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