INFLUENCE OF CATALOGUING AND INFORMATION RETRIEVAL AMONG 400 LEVEL STUDENTS OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE 2025 SESSION; A CASE STUDY OF SAZU

ABSTRACT This study investigated the influence of cataloguing on information retrieval among 400-Level Library and Information Science students of Sa’adu Zungur University during the 2025 academic session. Cataloguing remains a fundamental library process that supports resource organization, accessibility, and retrieval. However, challenges such as incomplete records, inconsistent metadata, limited automation, and insufficient user training often affect retrieval efficiency. The study was guided by four objectives: to examine the cataloguing practices employed at the university, to determine students’ satisfaction with cataloguing and retrieval, to assess students’ attitudes and skills toward cataloguing, and to identify effective interventions for enhancing retrieval.The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The total population was 203 final-year students, and a sample of 136 was determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s sampling table. A structured questionnaire was used as the research instrument, out of which 129 copies were validly completed and analyzed using frequency tables and percentages.Findings revealed that the university library employs a hybrid cataloguing system, combining both OPAC and manual card catalogues. While most students recognized OPAC as the primary cataloguing tool, many still reported reliance on manual catalogues. User satisfaction was moderate: although cataloguing was seen as useful in locating materials, concerns were raised regarding catalogue accuracy and retrieval speed. Students expressed positive attitudes towards catalogue use and confidence in OPAC, but most respondents indicated the need for further training to strengthen their skills. Key challenges identified included incomplete catalogue records, OPAC failures, and lack of user orientation. Suggested interventions included regular updates of bibliographic records, continuous staff training, proper OPAC maintenance, and student orientation.The study concludes that cataloguing significantly influences xi the effectiveness of information retrieval, but its impact is reduced when records are incomplete, systems are not maintained, and users lack adequate skills. It recommends sustained investment in cataloguing automation, frequent updates of records, capacity-building for staff, and user training to improve retrieval outcomes in Nigerian university libraries. Keywords: cataloguing, Information Retrieval, OPAC, Library Users, User Satisfaction, Library Automation, Library and Information Science Students, SAZU University.