Message to Post:

Subject:  OCLC Library Training and Education Market Needs Assessment Study

In September 2002, OCLC Online Computer Library Center contracted with
Outsell, Inc. to survey libraries about the training and education needs of
library workers.   The survey was designed to define the needs of libraries
for training and education, and to discern how OCLC might help serve those
needs through provision of online training offerings.  A major focus of the
survey was the use of web-based training for library workers.  Outsell
received 2,112 responses to the survey, 32% of which were from outside the
United States.  Both "consumers" (library workers who select their own
training  and "influencers" (library workers who select training for others)
responded to the survey. The study:

*  Identified a benchmark for library spending on training.
*  Identified a benchmark for the amount of training library workers
receive.
*  Helped to define the kinds of training libraries need and where those
needs are not being met.
*  Indicated the trends in web-based training in libraries.
*  Provided direction on where to focus efforts in the development of
web-based training.
Based on the enthusiastic global response and upon examination of the
information contained in the report, OCLC has decided to share the entire
report with the library community.  OCLC is hopeful that the report will
provide librarians -- and others making training and education decisions,
with information to support activities at their institutions and will also
encourage suppliers of training and educational opportunities to support the
needs of libraries as defined in this report.  OCLC will continue to work
with its "Members Council Task Force on OCLC's Role in Staff Development" to
determine how the results reported in the study may be used by OCLC to shape
its future activities.

If you would like to review or download the report, please visit the OCLC
Web site here:
http://www.oclc.org/promo/unlimited/edu01b.htm

End of Message