Gender and Information Needs and Seeking Behaviour of Cataloguers in University Libraries in Edo and Delta States

Abstract

This study investigated Gender and Information Seeking Behaviour of Cataloguers in University Libraries in Edo and Delta States, Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive survey method and questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. The population of this study consisted of fifty-two (52) cataloguers in all the university libraries in Edo and Delta States. The population of this study is relatively small and as such the entire population was used as the representative sample using purposeful sampling techniques. The researchers visited the sample institutions to administer the questionnaire. It was revealed from the study that male cataloguers often use list of subject headings compared to their female counterparts. Both sexes very often and often use classification schemes respectively in the process of performing their duties. Findings also show that there are more males cataloguers compared to females. Males and females cataloguers very often and often use Anglo-American Cataloguing Rule 2nd edition. The finding indicates that there is more female’s percentage in the use of Anglo-American Cataloguing Rule 2nd edition (AACR11) in the process of performing their task. The study also reveals that authority file is the least tool used by both sexes of cataloguers in the process of performing their duties. From the study, it is obvious that a majority of both male and female cataloguers consult the university’s main library when they are seeking for information. The study recommended that universities’ and libraries’ management should enact policies mandating cataloguers to be attending seminars, conferences and workshops because these are avenue where ideas can be shared on the advancement of their professional duties such as cataloguing and classification.