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

Question 1

A patron approaches the reference desk and asks, 'Where can I find books about the history of jazz music?' This is an example of which type of reference question?

Accepted Answer

Specific Search

Answer

Directional

Answer

Ready Reference

Answer

Research

Question 2

A key component of the reference interview is the use of open-ended questions. Which of the following questions is the best example of an open-ended question?

Accepted Answer

Tell me more about the information you are looking for on this topic.

Answer

Are you looking for a specific book?

Answer

Have you already checked the online catalog?

Answer

Do you need scholarly articles for your assignment?

Question 3

An academic librarian is designing a one-shot library instruction session for an undergraduate history course. The professor wants students to understand that historical interpretations change over time and that sources reflect the context in which they were created. Which ACRL Framework for Information Literacy 'frame' does this learning goal most directly address?

Accepted Answer

Authority Is Constructed and Contextual

Answer

Research as Inquiry

Answer

Scholarship as Conversation

Answer

Information Creation as a Process

Question 4

A public library patron who loves historical fiction novels by author Ken Follett asks the librarian for a recommendation of something similar to read next. The service the librarian provides to help the patron find a new author or title is best known as:

Accepted Answer

Readers' Advisory

Answer

Bibliographic Instruction

Answer

Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI)

Answer

Current Awareness Service (CAS)

Question 5

According to the RUSA 'Guidelines for Behavioral Performance of Reference and Information Service Providers,' which of the following is a key behavior associated with 'Approachability'?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining visibility to users and using welcoming body language.

Answer

Paraphrasing the user's question to ensure understanding.

Answer

Conducting a systematic search using a variety of sources.

Answer

Following up with the user to ensure their question was fully answered.

Question 6

A small, rural public library has a limited budget for reference materials. They need a single, reliable source that can quickly answer a wide variety of factual questions on topics like world events, population statistics, sports records, and government leaders. Which type of reference source would be the most cost-effective and appropriate choice to meet this need?

Accepted Answer

An annual almanac or yearbook

Answer

A multi-volume, subject-specific encyclopedia

Answer

A comprehensive biographical dictionary

Answer

A specialized scientific handbook