Abstract

Digital literacy plays a critical role in information dissemination in the knowledge economy, where the possession of skills and dexterity to effectively create, share and navigate in online spaces is paramount. Digital literacy is examined as the repertoire of skills needed to maximize the usage of digital devices and gain the competitive edge needed to exploit employment opportunities in the knowledge economy. The concept of creativity is also examined and the things that can be created using digital skills are explored. These are tied in with the concept of knowledge sharing and the role libraries can play in enhancing the dissemination of knowledge and information through the exploration of digital assets. Knowledge is power, and this power becomes even more accentuated when it is effectively and efficiently shared among the people who are in need of it. Hence, libraries and library professionals have a role to play in ensuring the maximization of the potentials inherent in the digital space through empowering creativity and enabling the sharing of knowledge and information.

Keywords:Digital literacy, creativity, knowledge, social media and digital skills.

Introduction

Knowledge is said to be a powerful tool in the hands of those who can use it effectively and efficiently. Knowledge can be described as the bedrock of modern society, as it has become a highly prized commodity for diverse engagements (Khajbakteev, 2020). The era of just having knowledge without using it for anything and/or merely declaring that it is power is gradually fading away. In present times, for knowledge to be regarded as a source of power, it needs to be put to good use and, most importantly, it should be easily accessible by many. The 21st-century information, political and socioeconomic landscapes are ruled by those who understand the importance of knowledge and who can key into it to create, govern and grow wealth.

The new understanding about the power of knowledge has led to a change in the way it is acquired and disseminated, as sharing knowledge through physical contact, whereby physical classes, seminars, workshops and trainings are organized, is gradually being done away with. Recent events, including the COVID-19 crisis, and evolving technologies have made virtual knowledge sharing more possible and prevalent.