This paper discusses the role information can play in the development of African countries in the 21st century. It stresses that development information can only be guaranteed when libraries in Africa computerize their systems, form networks for resource sharing, and take advantage of the benefits of information technology (IT), especially CD-ROM and the Internet. An in-depth review of the information management climate of African libraries was made, and this was found to be unfavorable. Problems inhibiting IT application by African libraries include apathy and inadequate government funding, undeveloped information and communication infrastructure, and shortage of technical manpower. Despite the bottlenecks, African libraries need to efficiently and effectively manage information in the 21st century in order to facilitate technology transfer, support education and research, and project Africa's achievements to the rest of the world. Considering the widespread democratization in Africa, blueprints for improved economy, better provision of information infrastructure, and progress already made in IT application and networking, it was established that the chances of African libraries automating their services in the 21st century are very bright. The paper concludes that the challenge for taking positive steps to promote modern information management in the new millennium is not only for African libraries, but for the world at large. (Contains 24 references.) (Author/MES)