Five Steps of Outcome-Based Planning & Evaluation for Youth Services

An easy-to-follow guide to maximize the effectiveness of outcome-based planning and evaluation (OBPE). In OBPE, library services and programming are designed with community-focused outcomes in mind, and evaluation of that outcome is built into the design. The authors wrote this book in the midst of the pandemic, a catastrophe that has only served to reinforce the necessity of agility in library services. They argue that OBPE keeps libraries agile by focusing on the ever-changing needs of the communities they serve. This book is separated into two parts. Part one introduces the OBPE model and details the rationale for including youth throughout OBPE. The second part details the five steps, their rationale, and how to implement them. A helpful case study is used as an example in every step of the process. Included forms and figures also help facilitate understanding and implementation of OBPE. With included examples and supporting research, this book is highly readable and can be read through to develop knowledge and theory. Librarians could use this book as a reference when considering implementation of new programming or when evaluating existing services. Overall, OBPE can be effective in improving library management and centering community priorities.