Post: Librarian Gr IV - Kerala Common Pool Library

Paper Code: 162/2016

Date of Test: 1st December 2016

Year Category: 2016

Exam Overview:

The Kerala Public Service Commission (Kerala PSC) conducted the examination for the post of Librarian Gr IV under the Kerala Common Pool Library. This exam assessed the candidates’ knowledge of library science, cataloguing, and general knowledge related to the functioning of public libraries. The role of Librarian Gr IV involves organizing, maintaining, and managing library resources and services.

Exam Pattern:

The exam was conducted in a Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) format, focusing on library science, information management, and general knowledge related to library administration.

• Total Questions: 100
• Time Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes (75 minutes)
• Maximum Marks: 100
• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Syllabus Coverage:

The syllabus for the Librarian Gr IV exam included various aspects of library science, cataloguing systems, and general knowledge. Below are the primary topics covered:

1. Library Science and Management:

• Library Organization: The role and functions of libraries, especially in public and academic settings.
• Library Classification Systems: Knowledge of classification systems such as Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) and Colon Classification.
• Cataloguing and Indexing: Understanding of cataloguing practices, including AACR2 and RDA (Resource Description and Access).
• Library Services: The various services offered in libraries, including lending, reference services, and information dissemination.
• Library Technologies: Modern tools and technologies used in libraries, such as Integrated Library Management Systems (ILMS) and digital library systems.

1. General Knowledge:

• Books and Authors: Famous authors, literary works, and important books in different fields.
• Library Acts and Policies: Understanding of the National Library Act and Kerala's library policies.
• Current Affairs: General knowledge related to current events, developments in the field of library science, and government initiatives to promote libraries.

1. General English and Arithmetic:

• Basic English grammar, sentence formation, and reading comprehension.
• Arithmetic involving basic calculations, percentages, and time-related problems.

Key Skills Assessed:

• Library Knowledge: Understanding of library classification, cataloguing systems, and library operations.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage library resources efficiently, ensuring access to books and information for library users.
• Information Management: Knowledge of modern tools used in libraries for organizing, cataloguing, and retrieving information.
• General Awareness: Familiarity with library science trends and general knowledge about books, authors, and library policies.

Sample Question Topics:

• Library Science and Management:
• What is the primary purpose of Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) in libraries?
• Which of the following is the main objective of library cataloguing?
• What does RDA stand for in the context of cataloguing?
• Which of the following is a key feature of an Integrated Library Management System (ILMS)?
• General Knowledge:
• Who is known as the Father of the Indian Library Movement?
• What is the primary function of a Public Library in Kerala?
• Which of the following is a famous work by R. K. Narayan?
• General English:
• Choose the correct sentence structure:
• “She has been reading a book for two hours.”
• Find the synonym of the word “magnificent.”
• Arithmetic:
• If a librarian arranges books in groups of 5, how many books can be arranged in 6 such groups if each group contains 5 books?
• A book was sold for Rs. 150 after a 10% discount. What is the original price of the book?

Preparation Tips for Candidates:

• Study Library Science Basics: Focus on classification systems, cataloguing rules, and modern library technologies.
• Understand Library Management Systems: Familiarize yourself with tools used in libraries to manage resources and services efficiently.
• Read About Library Acts and Policies: Be aware of national and state library acts, especially the ones relevant to Kerala.
• Stay Updated on Current Affairs: Keep up with the latest developments in the field of library science, including new trends, technologies, and government initiatives.
• Improve English and Arithmetic Skills: Brush up on general English grammar and practice basic arithmetic to handle questions in those areas.

Download the Question Paper:

You can download the Kerala PSC Librarian Gr IV - Kerala Common Pool Library (Paper Code: 162/2016) question paper from the following link: