Utilization of Cataloguing and Classification Resources by Postgraduates in Library Schools in Two Selected Private Universities in South-West, Nigeria

Abstract

Utilisation of cataloguing and classification resources by Master students in two private library schools in South-West, Nigeria was the concern of this paper. The use of cataloguing and classification tools is very important in teaching and learning organization of knowledge in library schools. It was observed that some graduates from library schools were not familiar with the use of cataloguing and classification tools until they are on industrial attachment or serving in library and information centres. This study therefore focused on the available cataloguing and classification tools, their use, and the challenges confronting their usage.Four research questions guided the research work. Research design of survey typewas used, and the population comprised of all the Master students(72) of Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State (54) and Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State (18) Library Schools. Total enumeration was used as sample. Questionnaire and observation checklist were the instruments used for data collection. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse collected data. Findings from the study among others revealed that lecturers, Anglo American Cataloguing Rules 2, Library of Congress Subject Headings were available while cataloguing laboratory, computer laboratory, DDC, MARC 21 coding standard were not available for learning cataloguing and classification in the library schools. The rate of use of cataloguing and classification resources by the respondents was low. Recommendations made for challenges confronting the use of resources among others are: cataloguing and classification tools should be provided in a well-equipped laboratory in enhancing teaching and learning of the courses in library schools; and computer laboratory with relevant resources should be provided for online cataloguing and classification to enhance 21st Century compliant with other library schools in the world.