This research is a comparative study on the challenges and way forward of human resource development in Abia and Imo States public library services. The survey method was employed in carrying out the study using a questionnaire, interview, and physical observation. The sample of the population of study was 153, comprising all the management staff at the headquarters including divisional libraries and officers in charge of these libraries under study. Data analysis was done using tables and percentages. The research identified the challenges of human resources development programme which include inadequate funding and equipment, poor management attitude, lack of resource persons, and lack of human resource development unit. The study, therefore, recommends that there should be a resource development unit in public libraries; funds should be provided for resource development programme. On the way forward of human resource development programmes in Abia and Imo States Public Libraries, the study predicts a continuous bleak future, unless the recommendations are implemented by those concerned, in order to make the prospects bright. Keywords: Human Resources, Human Resource Developments, Public Library Services.