Assessment of the use of MOYS classification scheme in selected judiciary libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Judicial libraries are collections of books managed by librarians, established and organized to facilitate the learning, research and practice of law (American Bar Association, 2021). Moys Classification Scheme (MCS) was built from the existing Library of Congress Classification Scheme for law; main class K is the most acceptable classification scheme for organizing law resources. However, due to a lack of knowledge of Moys application by many librarians, the organisation of law collection becomes difficult which might be attributed to the late adoption of MCS (Godwin & Adepoju 2019). Based on the above, this study tends to examine the adequate use of Moys classification by librarians and how effective the scheme classifies collections in judicial libraries in Kwara State. This study adopts quantitative research, using a survey research design. The study population includes forty-seven (47) library staff in Kwara state judiciary libraries. A total enumerative sampling technique was used. The research instrument employed was questionnaires. The collected data was analyzed using the descriptive method of data analysis of simple percentage, table and frequency. The finding of the study is that judiciary librarians know how to use Moys classification scheme among others. The study concluded that little or no knowledge of Moys classification from library school makes it difficult for them to comprehend some judicial terminology when classifying. Recommendations were also made.