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The establishment of electronic journal collections and digital information systems are the answer to Africa’s information problems. It would seem that with access available globally, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without any geographical limitations, health information is now available for everyone, even in Africa! The author will give an overview on how users of the library can use electronic journals for their information needs, with special emphasis on how Africa’s information needs can be effectively satisfied through the use of electronic journals. Supporting the University of Pretoria’s strategic goal of becoming an e-university, the Academic Information Service (University Library) decided to gradually convert its journal collection as far as possible from paper to electronic format. The development of the electronic journal portal of the University of Pretoria, Tyds@Tuks, will be described. It is a user-friendly, easy-to-access gateway to electronic journals and electronic journal platforms. User statistics show how the use of electronic journals increased since its inception in 1998 throughout the university. Currently more than 12 000 e-journal titles are available to University of Pretoria users. Marketing is essential to ensure effective return on investment. A key role in promoting the use of this facility is played by the Information Specialists. They are involved in training users and marketing Tyds@Tuks and the relevant platforms such as Science Direct which is particularly popular in the Health Sciences and Veterinary faculties. A successful program, launched by the Academic Information Service to promote the use of Science Direct, won an award from the publishers. The role and skills of the electronic resources librarians in the management of the e-journal collection will also be highlighted. Copyright issues applicable to e-journals will be featured as well. This process of electronic information retrieving is, however, not without limitations, especially in the African environment. The obstacle of inadequate bandwidth and other Information Technology infrastructure problems still need to be overcome before Africa can truly be part of the e-information world. |