National Mission on Libraries (NML) MCQs With Explanation

What is the National Mission on Libraries (NML), Objectives, Component, and Scheme?

The National Mission on Libraries (NML) was recommended & established by the National Knowledge Commission in 2012 to focus on the development of libraries across India.

The Ministry of Culture set up a High-Level Committee through a notification on May 4, 2012, to implement the NML.

The scheme under NML includes four main components:

1. National Virtual Library of India (NVLI): A platform for accessing digitized information.
2. Setting up of NML Model Libraries: Establishing model libraries to provide high-quality services.
3. Quantitative and Qualitative Survey: Conducting surveys to assess library conditions.
4. Capacity Building: Training and development for library staff.

Components of the NML

• National Virtual Library of India (NVLI) aims to provide access to a vast amount of digitized information available through various government and non-governmental projects.
• NVLI will build a comprehensive database and ensure broad access through a multilingual, open-source platform.
• Target users include students, researchers, professionals, and disadvantaged groups.
• NVLI’s services will include:
  • Aggregation of news, e-journals, and digital repositories.
  • Development of software for content collection and search engine capabilities.

Key Objectives of the National Mission on Libraries

1. Library Modernization: Upgrading existing libraries by improving infrastructure, introducing technology, and providing better access to books, journals, and other resources.
2. National Virtual Library of India (NVLI): Developing a digital platform to provide online access to resources in various formats, including books, manuscripts, and multimedia content. This initiative also aims to preserve India’s cultural heritage by digitizing rare and valuable documents.
3. Networking and Capacity Building: Establishing networks among different types of libraries across the country, including public, academic, and special libraries, to facilitate resource sharing. It also focuses on training and capacity building of library professionals.
4. Community Engagement: Encouraging the use of libraries as community hubs by promoting literacy and lifelong learning, especially in rural and underserved areas.
5. Library Legislation and Policy Framework: Developing a policy framework for the development and management of libraries, including the formulation of guidelines for library services and the establishment of a library network at the national level.

National Mission on Libraries (NML) MCQs with Answer and Explanation

1. What is one of the main components of the National Mission on Libraries (NML)?
   A) Creation of the National Archives of India
   B) Establishment of Model Libraries
   C) Digitization of all Indian books
   D) Creation of a central library for each state
   Answer: B) Establishment of Model Libraries
   Explanation: The NML includes the establishment of model libraries as one of its primary components, aiming to upgrade and modernize existing libraries.
2. Which initiative under NML aims to provide access to digitized information through a multilingual platform?
   A) National Digital Library of India
   B) National Virtual Library of India (NVLI)
   C) National Repository of Books
   D) National Information Center
   Answer: B) National Virtual Library of India (NVLI)
   Explanation: NVLI is designed to provide access to a vast array of digitized resources and content in multiple languages.
3. Who are the target users of the National Virtual Library of India (NVLI)?
   A) Students and researchers
   B) Only government officials
   C) Only public libraries
   D) Private companies
   Answer: A) Students and researchers
   Explanation: NVLI targets a wide range of users, including students, researchers, professionals, and disadvantaged groups.
4. What kind of platform will NVLI provide?
   A) A single-language platform
   B) A multilingual, open-source platform
   C) A physical library service
   D) A paid subscription service
   Answer: B) A multilingual, open-source platform
   Explanation: NVLI aims to be an accessible platform in multiple languages, ensuring broad access to digital content.
5. Which organization is responsible for the development of the National Virtual Library of India (NVLI)?
   A) Ministry of Education
   B) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
   C) National Archives of India
   D) Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF)
   Answer: B) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
   Explanation: NIC plays a significant role in the technological development of the NVLI.
6. What is the purpose of the model libraries established under NML?
   A) To preserve old manuscripts
   B) To provide high-quality library services
   C) To replace existing public libraries
   D) To serve only government employees
   Answer: B) To provide high-quality library services
   Explanation: Model libraries are intended to offer upgraded and high-quality services to users.
7. What does the NVLI aim to aggregate?
   A) Digital games and apps
   B) News, e-journals, and digital repositories
   C) Physical book collections
   D) Private company data
   Answer: B) News, e-journals, and digital repositories
   Explanation: NVLI will aggregate various forms of digital content, including news and journals.
8. Which document format is used in NVLI for content collection?
   A) PDF only
   B) XML, JSON, and other formats
   C) MS Word documents
   D) Physical book scans
   Answer: B) XML, JSON, and other formats
   Explanation: NVLI uses multiple digital formats for efficient content collection and management.
9. What is a significant feature of the software developed for NVLI?
   A) It operates only offline
   B) It includes advanced search engine capabilities
   C) It is compatible with only one operating system
   D) It is available for a fee
   Answer: B) It includes advanced search engine capabilities
   Explanation: The software for NVLI is designed with advanced search features to enhance accessibility.
10. Which type of libraries will be supported under the NML’s Model Library initiative?
    A) Private libraries
    B) Public libraries
    C) Digital libraries only
    D) School libraries only
    Answer: B) Public libraries
    Explanation: The Model Library initiative under NML focuses on upgrading public libraries to enhance service delivery.
11. What type of content will NVLI include?
    A) Only historical texts
    B) A variety of content including multimedia, books, and manuscripts
    C) Only government documents
    D) Only educational textbooks
    Answer: B) A variety of content including multimedia, books, and manuscripts
    Explanation: NVLI will provide access to a wide range of digitized resources, including multimedia.
12. The NML aims to benefit which of the following groups?
    A) Only urban populations
    B) Disadvantaged groups and rural areas
    C) Only government employees
    D) Only academic researchers
    Answer: B) Disadvantaged groups and rural areas
    Explanation: One of the mission’s objectives is to extend library services to underserved and disadvantaged communities.
13. Which agency is primarily responsible for the technological development of the NVLI?
    A) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
    B) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
    C) National Archives of India
    D) Ministry of Education
    Answer: B) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
    Explanation: NIC is tasked with developing the digital infrastructure for the NVLI.
14. What is the primary objective of the Model Libraries under the NML?
    A) To act as a research library
    B) To upgrade public library infrastructure and services
    C) To serve as digital-only libraries
    D) To archive old manuscripts
    Answer: B) To upgrade public library infrastructure and services
    Explanation: The Model Libraries are meant to enhance the overall quality of public libraries.
15. Which is a core feature of the National Virtual Library of India (NVLI)?
    A) Physical book lending services
    B) Online access to diverse digitized resources
    C) Paid membership for premium services
    D) Limited access to government officials
    Answer: B) Online access to diverse digitized resources
    Explanation: NVLI’s core function is to provide online access to a wide range of digitized content.
16. Under NML, who is responsible for conducting a survey of libraries?
    A) Ministry of Education
    B) Independent contractors
    C) Government-appointed survey teams
    D) Library associations
    Answer: C) Government-appointed survey teams
    Explanation: Surveys to assess library conditions are conducted by teams appointed by the government.
17. What is a major challenge identified in the implementation of the NML?
    A) Lack of physical books
    B) Funding constraints and slow digitization process
    C) Overstaffing in libraries
    D) Inability to attract visitors
    Answer: B) Funding constraints and slow digitization process
    Explanation: Funding and the pace of digitization have been significant challenges for the NML.
18. What is one of the expected outcomes of the NML?
    A) Closure of smaller libraries
    B) Reduction in physical book collections
    C) Enhanced access to knowledge resources for all
    D) Limiting library access to urban areas
    Answer: C) Enhanced access to knowledge resources for all
    Explanation: NML aims to improve access to knowledge through modernized and digital library services.
19. Which entity primarily oversees the implementation of NML projects?
    A) National Library of India
    B) Ministry of Culture
    C) State Governments
    D) Private contractors
    Answer: B) Ministry of Culture
    Explanation: The Ministry of Culture is the primary organization responsible for overseeing NML’s implementation.
20. What does NVLI’s open-source platform signify?
    A) Free access and the ability to modify content
    B) Restricted access to select users
    C) Subscription-based access
    D) Physical distribution of digital media
    Answer: A) Free access and the ability to modify content
    Explanation: An open-source platform allows users free access and the ability to contribute to or modify the digital content.
21. What type of survey is conducted under the NML to assess libraries?
    A) Economic survey
    B) Quantitative and qualitative survey
    C) Demographic survey
    D) Digital literacy survey
    Answer: B) Quantitative and qualitative survey
    Explanation: The NML conducts both quantitative and qualitative surveys to evaluate the status of libraries.
22. How does the NVLI platform ensure inclusivity?
    A) By limiting access to urban areas
    B) By offering content in multiple languages
    C) By restricting content to Indian citizens only
    D) By providing only academic resources
    Answer: B) By offering content in multiple languages
    Explanation: NVLI ensures inclusivity by providing content in various languages, making it accessible to a broader audience.
23. Which of the following is a goal of the Model Libraries under NML?
    A) Privatization of public libraries
    B) Development of specialized research facilities
    C) Standardization of library services across the country
    D) Limiting library services to educational institutions
    Answer: C) Standardization of library services across the country
    Explanation: Model Libraries aim to standardize and upgrade library services throughout India.
24. Which ministry is involved in the National Mission on Libraries?
    A) Ministry of Education
    B) Ministry of Culture
    C) Ministry of Information Technology
    D) Ministry of Rural Development
    Answer: B) Ministry of Culture
    Explanation: The Ministry of Culture is the key ministry responsible for the NML’s various initiatives.
25. What is a key outcome expected from NVLI?
    A) Centralized control over all libraries
    B) Unified access to various knowledge resources
    C) Reduced emphasis on digital libraries
    D) Limited access to certain regions
    Answer: B) Unified access to various knowledge resources
    Explanation: NVLI is expected to unify access to a wide range of digitized knowledge resources.
26. What is the significance of the National Mission on Libraries for rural areas?
    A) Restricts library services
    B) Expands access to modernized libraries
    C) Limits digital resources to urban libraries
    D) Focuses only on urban development
    Answer: B) Expands access to modernized libraries
    Explanation: NML aims to bring modernized library services to rural areas, enhancing accessibility.
27. What role does digitization play in the NVLI?
    A) Minimizes the importance of physical libraries
    B) Preserves and provides easy access to content
    C) Limits access to content
    D) Focuses only on academic resources
    Answer: B) Preserves and provides easy access to content
    Explanation: Digitization is crucial for preserving content and making it easily accessible to users through NVLI.
28. Who are the primary beneficiaries of the NVLI initiative?
    A) Urban populations
    B) Students, researchers, and disadvantaged groups
    C) Only government officials
    D) Private companies
    Answer: B) Students, researchers, and disadvantaged groups
    Explanation: NVLI targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including students, researchers, and marginalized groups.
29. What does the NML aim to address in the context of public libraries?
    A) Reducing the number of public libraries
    B) Improving infrastructure and services
    C) Closing down libraries in rural areas
    D) Converting all libraries into digital-only spaces
    Answer: B) Improving infrastructure and services
    Explanation: NML seeks to enhance the infrastructure and service quality of public libraries across India.
30. Which of the following is not a part of the NML objectives?
    A) Promotion of digital literacy
    B) Preservation of rare books and manuscripts
    C) Commercialization of public libraries
    D) Development of a network of libraries
    Answer: C) Commercialization of public libraries
    Explanation: The commercialization of public libraries is not part of the NML objectives, which focus on enhancing public access to information.
31. How does NVLI contribute to knowledge dissemination?
    A) By limiting access to certain resources
    B) By providing a centralized, open-access digital platform
    C) By charging users for content access
    D) By restricting content to educational institutions
    Answer: B) By providing a centralized, open-access digital platform
    Explanation: NVLI’s open-access platform is designed to facilitate widespread dissemination of knowledge.
32. What kind of infrastructure development is targeted under the NML?
    A) Establishing new physical libraries in every city
    B) Upgrading existing libraries and digitizing their collections
    C) Creating only digital libraries
    D) Building private libraries
    Answer: B) Upgrading existing libraries and digitizing their collections
    Explanation: The NML focuses on modernizing existing libraries and digitizing their content to enhance access.
33. Which of the following best describes the focus of NML?
    A) Creation of more private libraries
    B) Transformation of public libraries to meet modern needs
    C) Reduction of government spending on libraries
    D) Limitation of library services to specific groups
    Answer: B) Transformation of public libraries to meet modern needs
    Explanation: NML is dedicated to transforming public libraries to align with contemporary informational and technological needs.
34. Who is responsible for the content aggregation in NVLI?
    A) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
    B) Private content providers
    C) State governments
    D) Ministry of Education
    Answer: A) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
    Explanation: NIC is responsible for aggregating and managing content for the NVLI platform.
35. Which aspect of library services is emphasized in the NML?
    A) Exclusivity of access
    B) Inclusivity and modernization
    C) Profit generation
    D) Reducing public library numbers
    Answer: B) Inclusivity and modernization
    Explanation: The NML emphasizes making library services more inclusive and modernized to cater to the needs of all users.
36. How will NVLI impact access to rare and specialized content?
    A) It will limit access to only researchers
    B) It will make such content widely available online
    C) It will restrict access to government officials
    D) It will only provide summaries of rare books
    Answer: B) It will make such content widely available online
    Explanation: NVLI aims to digitize and provide online access to rare and specialized content, making it more accessible to the public.
37. Which of the following is not a key focus area of the NML?
    A) Enhancing the reach of public libraries
    B) Developing commercial library chains
    C) Promoting digital literacy
    D) Supporting the creation of a knowledge society
    Answer: B) Developing commercial library chains
    Explanation: The development of commercial libraries is not a focus of the NML, which aims to improve public access to knowledge.
38. What is the role of the Ministry of Culture in NML?
    A) Providing technical support only
    B) Overseeing and funding NML projects
    C) Managing commercial libraries
    D) Limiting access to specific groups
    Answer: B) Overseeing and funding NML projects
    Explanation: The Ministry of Culture is responsible for overseeing and providing financial support for the various projects under NML.
39. Which group is expected to benefit the most from the Model Libraries initiative?
    A) Private companies
    B) Rural and underserved populations
    C) Government officials
    D) Urban elites
    Answer: B) Rural and underserved populations
    Explanation: The Model Libraries initiative aims to provide enhanced services to rural and underserved communities.
40. How does the NML plan to improve public library infrastructure?
    A) By closing down underperforming libraries
    B) By investing in technology and training
    C) By privatizing public libraries
    D) By focusing only on urban areas
    Answer: B) By investing in technology and training
    Explanation: The NML seeks to improve public library infrastructure through investments in technology and the training of library staff.

References:

• National Mission on Libraries – Ministry of Culture, Government of India
• National Virtual Library of India
• National Knowledge Commission: Libraries – Government of India

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