USE OF ONLINE CATALOGUING AND CLASSIFICATION TOOLS IN PROCESSING INFORMATION RESOURCES IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES BY LIBRARY STAFF N NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

The study investigated the used online cataloguing and classification tools in processing information resources in University Libraries in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Hence, the main research questions of this study was used of online cataloguing and classification tools in processing information resources in University Libraries in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The study was guided by 3 research questions with survey research design adopted. The study was conducted in Nasarawa State and the population was one hundred and fifty-nine (159) library staff within the three university libraries under study, which constituted the sample size for the study. Instrument for data collection was self-developed structured questionnaire with face and content validity evaluated by three experts. The reliability coefficient obtained from each of the clusters were .75, .60, 62, .74, .87 while the overall reliability coefficient of the five clusters was .893 which was considered as satisfactory. Descriptive statistics was used in evaluating the research questions. The findings reveal that a variety of online cataloguing and classification tools are available in university libraries in Nasarawa State, with staff showing moderate usage of these tools, although they face significant challenges such as inadequate ICT infrastructure and skills. To enhance tool usage, universities should conduct regular audits and expand their tool offerings. Monitoring tool usage and offering incentives for proficient staff can promote consistent adoption. Finally, universities should prioritize investments in ICT infrastructure and create a supportive environment to address the identified challenges.