When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion: NLM's work in information technology and health in Africa, 1997-2011

In 1997, Donald A.B. Lindberg M.D., Director, U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM) agreed to address the request of African malaria researchers for full access to the Internet and medical journals as part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health's (NIH) contribution to the Multilateral Initiative on Malaria (MIM). This challenge matched my interests and previous experience in Africa. I joined NLM in 1997 to help establish the MIM Communications Network (MIMCom) in partnership with several NIH components and more than 30 other partners in Africa, the U.S., the United Kingdom (U.K.), and Europe. After a successful launch of MIMCom, NLM worked with African partners to create a series of innovative programs with scientists, librarians, journal editors, and medical students to build capacity on the continent and enhance global access to research in Africa.