FREE MLS - Master of Library and Information Science Reference and User Services Questions and Answers

Question 1

A patron approaches the reference desk and states, "I need to find books about the environment." The librarian responds, "That's a great topic.
To help me find the best resources, can you tell me a bit more about what aspect of the environment you're interested in?" What key technique of the reference interview is the librarian using?

Accepted Answer

Using an open-ended question to clarify and narrow the information need.

Answer

Paraphrasing the user's query for confirmation.

Answer

Using a closed-ended question to get a 'yes' or 'no' answer.

Answer

Providing an immediate answer with a known reference source.

Question 2

According to Carol Kuhlthau's Information Search Process (ISP) model, which stage is characterized by feelings of uncertainty and anxiety, where the user is first becoming aware of a lack of knowledge or understanding?

Accepted Answer

Initiation

Answer

Formulation

Answer

Exploration

Answer

Collection

Question 3

In a readers' advisory interview, a patron mentions they loved a particular novel because of its witty dialogue, lyrical prose, and the overall atmospheric tone the author created. The librarian is primarily identifying which of the following appeal factors?

Accepted Answer

Language

Answer

Pacing

Answer

Character

Answer

Storyline

Question 4

A university librarian is conducting an instructional session where students must evaluate a scholarly journal article, a popular magazine article, and a personal blog post on the same topic. The goal is for students to understand that the credibility and usefulness of a source depend on its creation process and the context in which it will be used. This lesson plan is most directly addressing which frame from the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy?

Accepted Answer

Authority Is Constructed and Contextual

Answer

Information Has Value

Answer

Research as Inquiry

Answer

Searching as Strategic Exploration

Question 5

A library director hires students to pose as patrons and ask a pre-determined set of factual questions at the reference desk over several weeks. The students then report back on the accuracy of the answers and the quality of the service they received. This method of evaluating reference service is known as:

Accepted Answer

Unobtrusive evaluation

Answer

A patron satisfaction survey

Answer

A focus group interview

Answer

Peer performance review

Question 6

Which of the following user queries is the best example of a ready reference question?

Accepted Answer

"What is the current population of Brazil?"

Answer

"Can you help me find scholarly articles on the effects of climate change on agriculture?"

Answer

"I'm looking for a good mystery novel, what do you recommend?"

Answer

"How do I use the library's new 3D printer?"