Abstract
Since the introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into library
services, there have been rapid transformations which have led to an era where the
preference of the library users is mostly online and consequently paved way for the
agitation by librarians for a web based friendly cataloguing rule which birthed Resources
Description and Access (RDA). This study therefore examined conundrums of Resources
Description and Access – based cataloguing in enhancing access to modern library
collections in Nigeria. The main focus of this paper was to find out the challenges of
implementing RDA in Nigerian modern libraries. It also delved into the understanding of
the impacts of RDA towards accessing modern library collections. The study was
qualitative in nature as data were derived from published journals, articles and textbooks.
The paper was further buttressed by the adoption of diffusion of innovation theory. It was
observed that inadequate training and skills, infrastructure limitations, funding constraints,
transitioning from AACR2, limited awareness, inconsistent cataloging practices and
resistance to change are the conundrums posing as clog in the wheel towards the
implementation of RDA-based cataloguing in enhancing access to modern library
collections in Nigeria. Based on the observations, it was suggested among others that
Nigerian Library Association should provide regular RDA training workshops and online
learning opportunities to equip librarians with the necessary skills and knowledge to
effectively implement RDA, focusing on hands-on practice, real-world examples, and
addressing specific challenges in Nigerian libraries.
Keywords: Access, Cataloguing, Library collections, Modern library, Resources Description
and Access.
Publication Date: 2026-02-05