Project LiBiTOP: evidence-based decisions for strategic management of the Lithuanian library networks

ENWith complex changes occurring in the library environment and growing requirements for public organizations to be effective and transparent, initiatives to establish directions for change are increasingly being launched in the library sector. In Lithuania, project LiBiTOP (2011–2014) was designed to develop strategic advice to library authorities and managers. The article discusses methodological solutions and findings to demonstrate the use of evidence-based data for developing library strategies. The project focused on 10 institutions – county public libraries and libraries of national significance. In the project, three research studies were carried out, and the findings were integrated to formulate conclusions and recommendations for library management in the next 10 years. The project applied a mix of methods used in strategic planning and management, such as political, economic, social and technological analysis, scenario planning, balanced scorecard and threats, opportunities, weaknesses and strengths analysis. Recommendations for library authorities and library managers were developed on the basis of identified opportunities and threats as well as strengths and weaknesses in libraries. They covered the need for a national library strategy and a framework for continuous professional development as well as the demand to increase library efficiency and effectiveness in terms of collection management and digital services.