Library Data Storytelling: Obstacles and Paths Forward

Abstract

Data storytelling holds much potential to positively impact public perceptions of libraries. However, realizing the potential of library data storytelling will require understanding practical and cultural obstacles within public and other library contexts that range from prioritizing data collection over communication to fearing regulatory and assessment uses of data. Based on mixed qualitative methods (34 interviews, a questionnaire, a ranking exercise, post-workshop discussions) and six years of iteratively developed data storytelling workshops, this article explores common obstacles–emotions and attitudes; time, tools, and training–to library data storytelling and proposes ways to overcome them.