Abstract

 The increase in electronic resources occasioned by ICT, modern cataloguing practices and electronic platforms, with dearth of experienced cataloguers has left Nigerian libraries at the crossroads. The study investigated cataloguing practices and services of Nigerian libraries. and examined in depth the cataloguing codes/standards used by Nigerian libraries; various cataloguing data/services provided and used by the libraries; extent to which electronic platforms are integrated into the cataloging practices and services of the libraries and the challenges faced by Nigerian libraries in cataloguing library resources. The study adopted survey research design. The target population is librarians and paraprofessional cataloguers in the National Library of Nigeria (NLN) and public libraries in Nigeria. Convenient sampling technique was used to draw a sample size of 151 librarians and para-professional cataloguers in the National Library of Nigeria and public libraries in Southeast Nigeria. Instrument for data collection was a checklist and structured questionnaire. Collected data were presented in frequency tables and analyzed using frequency count and mean value. For items related to Like rt scale measurement, the Criterion Mean value of 2.5 was used as the minimum scale of positive result. Results from data analysis found that the National Library of Nigeria and public libraries in Southeast Nigeria mostly use the print/traditional cataloguing codes and standards, e.g. DDC and LC, etc., manual cataloguing, CIP and centralized cataloguing. Results also show that they are yet to integrate electronic platforms in their cataloguing practices; and are challenged by out-dated cataloguing codes, internet connectivity, etc. The study therefore, recommends training of cataloguers and embracing computer-based cataloguing and electronic platforms that would enable them easily process their resources, in the face of increasing electronic resources in the libraries among others. 4. Key words: Technical service, library and information, cataloguing practices, Nigerian libraries.