What is a rubric?

A rubric is fundamentally a method of assessment that employs defined criteria to evaluate the quality of work or performance. This structured approach provides clear guidelines for both assessors and participants regarding what is expected for different levels of achievement. When using a rubric, evaluators outline specific characteristics of performance, often scaling them to indicate varying degrees of success—such as exemplary, satisfactory, or unsatisfactory. This not only helps in making the assessment process more objective but also aids learners in understanding how to meet the expectations set for a task.

The other options represent various resources or tools relevant to library operations but do not capture the essence of what a rubric is. For instance, while a set of rules for library conduct is important for maintaining a respectful environment, it does not relate to assessment criteria. Similarly, a reference guide for cataloging serves as a resource for organizing library materials, and a document stating hours relates to operational information, neither of which pertain to evaluating performance based on defined criteria.