Topic 5: Filling in the Gaps

A needs assessment is not conducted for the purpose of replacing or improving existing services or programs, but rather for the purpose of filling in gaps. Ask yourself what is missing and what could be added without duplicating something else? What do patrons want and need? Ask your patrons what they want and need. Are these services found anywhere else? It is important to keep in mind that even if a service/resource exists elsewhere, it may be in high demand. Is the service/resource fully utilized? If so, it may be a good idea to also provide the service/resource.

Asking these types of questions is essential in finding gaps not only in your library, but in the community you serve.

The School Library Journal offers an article titled, describing how some libraries have adopted programs focused on helping people with autism transition into adulthood (Okyle, 2015). Senior librarian Rogers-Whitehead, from Salt Lake County (UT) Library Services, said when she concluded her needs assessment she found that "there was a gap in services and people wanted services for the older group... a program that focuses on teamwork and transition, and involves a sensory craft or activity" (2015). When a program does not exist and there is no correlation between this initiative and another community effort you may have an opportunity to start something new. Jim Runyon, Executive Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, Gov't. Affairs & Grants at Easter Seals, urges, however, to know exactly where gaps appear and to be careful not to repeat or replace already existing programs. Rather, he says to "reach out to those people providing the service and work with them to add something of value" (Schriar, 2017, p. 20).

Reference

Okyle, C. (2015, November 03). School Library Journal. Almost Adult, With Autism., Retrieved from http://www.slj.com/2015/10/teens-ya/almost-adult-with-autism/#_

Schriar, S., Foerster, P., & Pelich, M. Targeting Autism. (2017). Libraries partnering to serve the autism community: National forums offer direction. Retrieved from http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/library/libraries/pdfs/targeting-autism-whitepaper.pdf.