Information and Computer Technology Management Challenges in the Networked World: Implications for Libraries in Africa

Abstract

The networked world is characterized by high-speed, universal access and application of information and computer technology in schools, government offices, libraries, businesses, health care facilities, and homes. Such a networked world is synonymous with the information society characterized by universal access and the ability of people to seek information, evaluate it, and use it meaningfully. The networked world, like the information society, affords an opportunity to use e-mail as the preferred communication method, use government Web portals to deliver information services to citizens, access to digital libraries from any point with a Web connection, and undertake electronic learning. The networked world generates and moves large amounts of electronic information. This poses great challenges for effective organization and management. This paper assesses the challenges of information management in the networked world and the implications for libraries and information centers in Africa.