The Global Computer Network: Indications of Its Use Worldwide.

Abstract The dramatic increase in the use of the global network is examined through statistics and examples of the involvement of many countries. Despite the explosive growth of Internet use and contrary to the increasingly frequent characterization of the Internet as global, gaps are identified in the international coverage of the network. Evidence of the participation of librarians in the global network is sought through an analysis of subscriber lists for selected library-related listservs. Findings show that representation of librarians from a few countries is very high, while representation of librarians from most countries is low or non-existent. The value of the Internet and the potential role librarians can plan in this evolving environment are discussed.