MLS FREE MLS - Master of Library and Information Science Reference and User Services Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which reference interview technique involves restating a patron's query in different words to confirm understanding?
- Paraphrasing (Correct answer)
- Open questioning
- Reflecting
- Summarizing
Correct answer: Paraphrasing
Paraphrasing restates the patron's question using different words to verify the librarian correctly understands the information need.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of a pathfinder (LibGuide) in reference services?
- To provide a curated list of resources on a specific topic (Correct answer)
- To track patron borrowing history
- To catalog new acquisitions
- To manage interlibrary loan requests
Correct answer: To provide a curated list of resources on a specific topic
Pathfinders compile and organize key resources on a particular subject to guide patrons in their research.
Question 3: In the RUSA Guidelines for Behavioral Performance, which behavior is emphasized during the initial approach to a patron?
- Approachability (Correct answer)
- Speed of answer delivery
- Technical database knowledge
- Collection development expertise
Correct answer: Approachability
RUSA guidelines stress approachability, including making eye contact, smiling, and appearing welcoming when a patron first approaches.
Question 4: Which type of reference question asks for a specific, factual piece of information such as a date or statistic?
- Ready-reference question (Correct answer)
- Research question
- Directional question
- Reader's advisory question
Correct answer: Ready-reference question
Ready-reference questions seek brief, factual answers that can typically be found quickly in standard reference sources.
Question 5: What does the term 'information literacy' primarily refer to in the context of user services?
- The ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively (Correct answer)
- The ability to read at a college level
- Proficiency in using library catalog software
- Knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System
Correct answer: The ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively
Information literacy encompasses the skills needed to identify information needs, find relevant sources, critically evaluate them, and use information ethically.
Question 6: Which resource would be most appropriate for answering a patron's question about current U.S. demographic statistics?
- American FactFinder / Census Bureau data (Correct answer)
- Oxford English Dictionary
- Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature
- Books in Print
Correct answer: American FactFinder / Census Bureau data
The U.S. Census Bureau's data tools provide authoritative current demographic statistics for the United States.
