UGCNET Questions

An OPAC replaces traditional card catalogues with a computerised interface that users can query by author, title, subject or keywords. It allows faster and more flexible searching for items in the collection. In some systems, the OPAC can be accessed remotely as well. Therefore, its primary function is to support searching the library’s holdings.

Option A:
Automated issue and return of books may be handled by circulation modules or self-check machines, which are separate though related systems. OPAC itself focuses on discovery, not on every circulation function.

Option B:
Playing online games is not an intended academic use of library computers and has nothing to do with catalogue searching. This behaviour does not represent the purpose of an OPAC.

Option C:
This option correctly identifies search as the core service offered by OPAC. It reflects modern practice in ICT-based library management where users locate items via terminals or web interfaces.

Option D:
Changing curricula is an academic governance task and cannot be done simply by interacting with the library catalogue.

A digital library uses ICT to store, organise and deliver information resources in electronic form. Students and faculty can access e-books, journals, theses and multimedia content from computers on and sometimes off campus. Advanced search facilities and remote access are typical features. Hence, an online system providing such access clearly represents a digital library service.

Option A:
A handwritten notice board is a physical communication tool and does not provide structured access to scholarly resources. It lacks the digital and searchable features of a library system.

Option B:
A chalk-and-talk classroom is about face-to-face teaching and is not a library service, digital or otherwise. It does not involve electronic collection management.

Option C:
A simple cupboard of printed books without a computer catalogue is part of a traditional library but not a digital library. It lacks online access and ICT-based retrieval.

Option D:
This option correctly describes a networked service that delivers electronic resources, matching the concept of a digital library in the ICT context.

RFID tags attached to books and other items can be read wirelessly by fixed or handheld readers, so issuing, returning and stock verification become faster and more accurate. Because the tags integrate with the library software, records are updated automatically, which is why tagging items for wireless identification is the primary use of RFID in libraries.

Option A:
This option correctly states that RFID is used to tag items with electronic labels that can be detected without direct contact. The tags and readers enable quick check-out, check-in and inventory control, reducing manual effort and errors.

Option B:
Printing book titles with manual typewriters is a purely mechanical process and does not involve radio-frequency tags, wireless reading or integration with an automated system. It belongs to older record-keeping methods, not RFID-based automation.

Option C:
Sending spam emails is an abuse of communication systems and has nothing to do with RFID tags on physical items. RFID is a short-range identification technology, not an email or messaging tool.

Option D:
Replacing digital catalogues with handwritten registers actually moves away from ICT-based management. RFID is normally used together with electronic catalogues, not to eliminate them.