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Meet Jessica Gagnon: Library Data Analyst

Post Date:12/29/2023

Jessica and husband with backyard habitat certificate

Always willing to help, inspiring, and brilliant are just some of the ways you might describe Library Data Analyst Jessica Gagnon (Gone-yo). Kind is another great word to describe Jessica, who is affectionately called Dr. J by her coworkers.

Jessica, tell us about your position as the Library Data Analyst.

As the Library Data Analyst, I support all the workgroups at the library by providing insights for data-informed decisions. This includes topics ranging from budget tracking to circulation to questions about our programming and more. Together, we all work toward assuring our library operations are efficient and better aligned with our community's diverse needs. I enjoy the variety in my day and love being able to serve my community in this way.

What experiences in your life led to work in this field?

While I have taken a bit of a meandering path to work in libraries, libraries have always been a significant part of my life: From childhood visits with my family to extensive hours studying in university libraries while pursuing a doctorate in physical chemistry. After completing my dissertation, I transitioned to local government, driven by a strong desire to serve my community more directly. Now, I leverage my analytics and communications skills in new ways and in service to my community. I think that’s pretty cool.

As you reach out to community members for input and feedback, what are you hoping to hear?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is connecting with our community and gathering their input. I have had the opportunity to help analyze community input on several occasions, and there is something truly special about being able to see the passion people have for our community. I’m humbled by those who take the time to share their thoughts, concerns, and values and engage with our local government and library. That was a long way of saying that I like hearing from our community.

How does the data you analyze impact decision that are made by leadership?

Looking up at the canopy of the Redwoods from Jessica's viewpoint

The data I analyze assists decisions across our library system in several ways. A substantial aspect of my role involves creating data visualizations, which are essentially interactive reports that empower users to pose questions and derive answers grounded in data.

The visualizations I've developed enable users to filter and drill down into specific inquiries or track numerical trends. I work to assist users in optimizing resource utilization and allocation. Examples include identifying the need for increased staffing resources and changes in library services usage.

Additionally, I assist with the Summer Reading Program, a personal favorite initiative. My involvement includes helping those who purchase giveaway books and reporting program results to our various stakeholders. We have seen an increase in participation in this program for three consecutive years!

What is your favorite wacky/fun fact?

Probably my favorite fact that I have learned recently is that coastal redwoods have been around the California area for about 20 million years, which is about 40 times as long as Mount Hood has existed at roughly 500,000 years. I always enjoy facts that put extreme scales that are difficult to comprehend into easily visualized context.

Jessica sitting on a rock on edge of a lake