Critical Data Storytelling for Libraries: Crafting Ethical Narratives for Advocacy and Impact

In today’s polarized landscape, libraries face two key challenges: the difficulty of turning raw data into narratives that effectively advocate for libraries, and the ethical complexities of representing communities in these stories. McDowell’s vital toolkit empowers librarians and information professionals to transform data into ethical, compelling narratives that connect with communities and advocate for their organizations. This book teaches both the practicalities of data storytelling and introduces critical approaches that ensure stories are inclusive, socially just, and impactful. Readers will find the book essential for communicating library value to help secure funding, resources, and community support. Applying theory to real-world scenarios, chapters cover the dynamic interrelationships between storyteller, audience, and story which lie at the heart of storytelling; ways to mesh library data collection processes with long-term storytelling potential, prioritizing interaction over transaction; three time-honored and effective narrative strategies for organizing the informational and emotional content of library data stories, easily adaptable for any situation; approaches for emphasizing inclusivity and justice to ensure that library advocates can tell stories that challenge stereotypes, promote equity, and align their efforts with broader ethical and social goals; audience attitudes as challenges and opportunities for library data communication; and strategies for maintaining open and transparent public communication in the face of rampant misinformation and active disinformation campaigns.