Convergence of libraries and computer centres for African universities: a strategy for enhancing information services

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Lwehabura, Mugyabuso J.F. | Matovelo, Doris S.

Affiliations: Sokoine National Agricultural Library, Sokoine University of Agriculture, P.O. Box 3022, Chuo Kikuu, Morogoro, Tanzania E‐mail: library@ suanet.ac.tz

Abstract: This paper aims at stimulating universities in Africa to work towards convergence of computer centres and library services as a strategy for enhancing information provision in these institutions. It highlights the convergence initiatives in the context of developed countries and gives advantages and benefits of such a strategy particularly in developing countries’ constraints in both material and human resources. Despite possible obstacles that have also been pointed out, the paper concludes by stressing the timeliness for convergence of the two services in African universities where IT is now rapidly being adopted.

Journal: Information Technology for Development, vol. 8, no. 4, pp. 221-229, 1999