​It is always a good idea to backwards plan for each program or service you offer. If you have a desired outcome in mind, it will be easier to evaluate your services. You should be explicit about your goals in your service plan. In addition to your specific goals, the library services you offer in a JDC should ideally:

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• support the mission of the JDC
• provide access to materials that youth want
• provide materials, services, and programs that help youth develop positive social skills
• provide resources and tools for youth to succeed in their communities





Evaluation Methods



Reader's Advisory & Focus Groups

If you offer reader's advisory, have conversations with youth about what they like about the library and what they want changed. You may also want to organize focus group sessions with youth. Keep your questions short and make sure they are asked naturally. Remember that many youth treasure their time in their library and do not want to feel  bothered by questions when they only have a few minutes to find a book. Some questions to consider are:



• Are there any types of books or materials that you wish we had more of in the library?
• What do you like about the way the library space is designed? What do you think we should fix?
• Are there any posters or art that you think would be cool to include on the walls?
• Can you think of any ways this library could give you more tools to be successful once you go back to your community?
• What has been your favorite library program that I have put on? Why did you like it? 

 

 

Circulation Statistics

Keep circulation statistics to see what books are circulating the most. Place a 'return' box in a space where both youth and detention center staff have access. Make sure you develop a procedure for handling returned items.





Staff Input

Don't be afraid to ask JDC staff to give feedback on the programs and services you are offering. Staff will most likely be in the same room as you when you offer your programs. You might ask them to observe your programs and offer their thoughts about what they think worked and did not work.

 

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Surveys

Surveys can be a good way to have documented feedback about your programs. However, they might not  give you the best indication of how well you are doing. Youth might view surveys as another form of paper work or potentially as an information collection strategy that seeks to surveil them rather than to help them. 



Group Meetings

Make sure you meet regularly with the staff at the JDC. Organize library meetings to discuss the services you are offering, and any programs you are planning to develop in the future. Remember staff are on a tight schedule just like you. Scheduling meetings gives staff an opportunity to express their thoughts about the library project.