This paper briefly defines the nature of economic development, describes the various conferences and seminars which have been held to discuss library problems pertaining to Africa, discusses the types of programs and activities that African libraries must engage in if they are to contribute effectively to economic development, reviews the role of UNESCO and other international organizations in developing programs for the transfer and dissemination of scientific and technical information within Africa, and examines the specific problems pertaining to the availability of books and adequately-trained library professionals in Africa as these affect the ability of libraries to contribute to economic development. A 15-item reference list accompanies the text. (JL)