IT and university libraries in Africa

Based on the findings of a detailed review of the current state and future prospects of 19 university libraries in 12 countries of Africa undertaken in 1995, levels of adoption and benefits IT has brought to libraries are weighed against the drawbacks. Implications for practitioners and researchers are discussed. IT will not reduce the need for hard copy books and journals. Its biggest potential is in providing links to the outside world and in increasing intra‐African exchange and communication.