Library’s Continuous Improvement Fieldbook: 29 Ready-to-Use Tools

Innovations with continuous quality improvement are moving off the manufacturing line, out of the corporation, and into the library. For the first time, this guide applies quality management concepts to make library processes more effective with 29 practical and easy-to-use templates. Field-tested and refined over three years in 17 different, the tools are structured with consistent guidelines. Library success stories and cartoon illustrations bring the principles alive. Examples of library situations, step-by-step instructions and a section of hints, cautions and tricks round out each checklist. Directors and library leaders at public and academic institutions will be able to open this guide and immediately reap these benefits:

• Lower costs, save time, and improve efficiencies
• Improve morale and reduce turnover by optimizing staff talents
• Stimulate creative thinking and generate new possibilities with brainstorming
• Encourage participation and build teamwork
• Make complex issues manageable
• Identify root causes of problems and address systemic issues

Using these "continuous improvement" tools, mapped to the specific outcomes needed, your library team will consistently add value to its community, make a difference to customers and improve services.