Principles of cataloguing and classification in the 21st century: Advantages, approaches and challenges of retrospective catalogue conversion in library

Abstract

This paper examined the principles of cataloguing and classification in the 21st century with emphasis on retrospective catalogue conversion. The indispensability of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as the major pivot and driven force that brought the concept of library automation were highlighted. Relevant literature which were germane to the study were searched. The involvement of Information and Communication Technologies in library operations has no doubt led to the advent of new trends and models. These include: Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)/Web-based Public Access Catalogue (WEBPAC), Online/Copy Cataloguing and use of Resource Description and Access (RDA). The concept of MARC 21 was also highlighted. The paper enumerates the advantages, procedures, approaches, techniques and challenges of retrospective catalogue conversion in a library system. The study concluded that retrospective catalogue conversion is entirely a necessity not a luxury. The study therefore recommended that libraries should work towards converting their records from manual system to automated system for quick and easy access to information and to meet up with the current global trends.