THE NATIONAL BIBLIOGRAPHY OF NIGERIA: HISTORY, TRENDS, CHALLENGES, AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

The National Bibliography of Nigeria (NBN) is a vital instrument for the preservation, organization, and dissemination of Nigeria’s intellectual and cultural heritage. Established under the mandate of the National Library of Nigeria (NLN), this paper aims to highlight the significance of the National Bibliography of Nigeria as it serves as the authoritative record of all published works produced in and about Nigeria. Despite its significance, the NBN has faced numerous challenges since its inception, including inadequate legal deposit compliance, funding constraints, and limited technological infrastructure. This paper strives to trace the historical development of the National Bibliography of Nigeria, it examines the emerging trends shaping its evolution, identifies key challenges, and discusses future prospects. It concludes that digitization, stronger legal frameworks, and institutional collaboration are essential for enhancing the relevance and sustainability of the NBN in the digital era.