PSCWB Librarian Recruitment 2026: 1 Post, Apply by March 19

The Public Service Commission, West Bengal (PSCWB) has released Advertisement No. 01/2026 inviting online applications for the recruitment of a Librarian for the West Bengal Secretariat Library. This is a significant opportunity for eligible candidates looking for a permanent government position in the library sector. Interested and qualified Indian citizens can apply online before the closing date.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification (as on closing date of application)

• A Second Class Honours or Master’s degree of a recognized University.
• A degree or diploma in Librarianship of a recognized University or Institution.
• Three years’ experience in Library work in a Public or Institutional Library of repute.

Desirable: Experience in office administration.

Age Limit (as on 01.01.2026)

Note: SC/ST/OBC candidates from other states will be treated as General candidates. Employees of the West Bengal Government Secretariat Library are eligible to apply.

Experience

Candidates must possess a minimum of three years’ experience in Library work in a Public or Institutional Library of repute. This experience must be gained in full-time employment/research in the relevant field within the closing date of receipt of applications.

Application Fee

Note: No exemption of fee is available to SC/ST candidates of other states. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Important Dates

Selection Process

The selection process for the PSCWB Librarian post will involve the following stages:

1. Screening Test (if applicable): If a large number of applications are received, the Commission may conduct a Screening Test to restrict the number of candidates for the interview. Marks obtained in the Screening Test will only be used for shortlisting candidates for the interview and will not be considered for the final merit list.
2. Interview: Candidates shortlisted from the initial application scrutiny or Screening Test (if conducted) will be called for an Interview. The interview will assess the candidate’s knowledge, experience, and suitability for the post.

Important Points Regarding Selection:

• Interview Qualifying Marks: Candidates must secure a minimum of 40% qualifying marks in the Interview (for UR category) to be considered for the post.
• Tie-Breaking Rule: In case of a tie in interview marks between two or more candidates, preference will be given to the senior candidate based on their date of birth. If the dates of birth are also the same, the candidate with a higher percentage of marks in the examination for the minimum qualification required for the post will be considered.
• Bengali Language Test: Ability to read, write, and speak in Bengali is an essential requirement (unless mother tongue is Nepali). This knowledge will be tested at the time of the interview. Poor performance in the Bengali test may lead to cancellation of candidature.

How to Apply

Candidates must apply online through the Public Service Commission, West Bengal (PSCWB) official website. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website: psc.wb.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the ‘Apply Online’ section or the relevant recruitment advertisement.
3. If you are a new user, complete the ‘One Time Registration’ process by providing basic details and creating a profile.
4. Log in using your Registration ID and Password.
5. Locate the advertisement for ‘Librarian, West Bengal Secretariat Library (Advt. No. 01/2026)’ and click on ‘Apply Now’.
6. Fill out the online application form carefully with all required personal, educational, and experience details.
7. Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specified guidelines.
8. Pay the application fee online through the available payment gateway (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking). SC/ST/PwBD candidates of West Bengal are exempted from fee payment.
9. Review all entered details thoroughly before final submission. Obtain a printout of the completed application form for future reference.

Edit Window Instructions:

• An edit window will be available from 23rd March to 30th March, 2026.
• Applicants can log into their individual account at https://psc.wb.gov.in to access the edit option.
• The edit option can be availed only once during the specified period.
• Carefully verify all details. If you need to change your address, first update it in the Profile Section, then use the Edit option.
• No requests for changes will be entertained after the edit window closes.

Important Links

Job Profile & Career Scope

The role of a Librarian in the West Bengal Secretariat Library is a prestigious government position. Librarians are essential for managing and organizing information resources, supporting research, and facilitating access to knowledge. The job profile typically includes:

• Managing library collections, including acquisition, cataloging, and classification of books, journals, and digital resources.
• Assisting government officials and staff with research, information retrieval, and reference services.
• Implementing and maintaining library management systems (LMS).
• Preserving historical documents and rare collections.
• Developing and promoting library services to users.
• Managing library budgets and resources.
• Staying updated with the latest library science trends and technologies.

Career growth for a government librarian often involves moving to higher administrative or specialized roles within the library system, or even transitioning to other government departments requiring information management expertise. The position offers job security, a respectable pay scale, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Preparation Tips

Securing a government job like the Librarian position requires a strategic approach. Here are some tips:

1. Understand the Syllabus & Exam Pattern:

While a detailed exam pattern for the Screening Test is not yet released, focus on core library science subjects, general knowledge, and current affairs. For the interview, expect questions on your experience, library management, and current trends in library science.

2. Focus on Library Science Fundamentals:

Brush up on subjects like Library Classification (DDC, UDC, Colon), Cataloging (AACR2, RDA), Library Management, Information Technology in Libraries, Reference Services, and Preservation of Library Materials. Standard textbooks for B.Lib.I.Sc and M.Lib.I.Sc will be highly beneficial.

3. Enhance General Knowledge and Current Affairs:

Many government exams include sections on GK and Current Affairs. Stay updated with national and international news, especially related to education, culture, and government policies in West Bengal.

4. Practice Communication Skills:

The interview will test your communication and interpersonal skills, especially your ability to read, write, and speak Bengali. Practice communicating clearly and confidently. If Bengali is not your mother tongue, dedicate time to improve your proficiency.

5. Prepare for the Interview:

Research the West Bengal Secretariat Library’s function and services. Be ready to discuss your experience, how you handled specific library challenges, and your vision for the library. Prepare answers for common interview questions for librarians.

6. Document Preparation:

Ensure all your educational, experience, and caste/category certificates are in order and obtained by the closing date of application. Keep both original and attested photocopies ready for future verification processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can candidates from outside West Bengal apply for this post?

A1: Yes, Indian citizens are eligible to apply. However, candidates from other states will be treated as General (Unreserved) candidates, and will not be eligible for age relaxation or fee exemption benefits reserved for West Bengal’s SC/ST/OBC/PwBD categories.

Q2: What is the age relaxation for government employees?

A2: The notification states that age is relaxable for persons holding substantive appointments under Government, not exceeding 5 years in any case.

Q3: Is there any negative marking in the Screening Test?

A3: The notification does not explicitly mention negative marking for the Screening Test. Candidates should refer to future updates or instructions released by PSCWB regarding the exam pattern.

Q4: What documents are required for the application?

A4: You will need scanned copies of your photograph and signature. Additionally, keep all your educational qualification certificates (Master’s/Honours degree, Librarianship degree/diploma), experience certificates, age proof, and category certificates (if applicable) ready, as these will be required for verification during the selection process.

Q5: How will the Bengali language proficiency be tested?

A5: The ability to read, write, and speak in Bengali is an essential requirement and will be tested at the time of the interview. Candidates with Nepali as their mother tongue are exempt from this requirement, unless specifically mentioned.

Q6: What if I face issues while applying online?

A6: For further details and assistance, candidates can contact PSCWB on the e-mail ID: pscwbit01@gmail.com, as mentioned in the advertisement.

Q7: When will the exam/interview dates be announced?

A7: The date of examination/interview will be notified later on the Commission’s website at https://psc.wb.gov.in. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates.

Q8: Can I edit my application after the closing date?

A8: An edit window is provided from 23rd March to 30th March, 2026. This option can be availed only once. No requests for changes will be entertained after this period, so ensure all details are correct during the edit window.