About PhilAgriNet

Catalysts for the Creation of PhilAgriNet
PhilAgriNet stands for Philippine Agricultural Libraries and Information Services Network. It is envisioned to electronically link participating member institutions as well as researchers for mutual access to agricultural knowledge, starting with a central database then moving on to actual exchange or delivery of documents. It could also serve as a venue for the sharing of resources and expertise.

Proliferation of the Literature of Agricultural Research and Changing User Needs
A huge amount of agricultural information sources are now available to researchers. Getting at the right kind of information through an efficient portal is a problem that must be faced daily. Information seekers now expect more from libraries and information services. They want instant access to electronic information. PhilAgriNet could bridge this gap.

Strengthening the AGRIS Database
There is a current move to revive AGRIS as a premiere database of agricultural literature from developing countries. Along with this, the enhancement or the new version of the WebAGRIS software, which is a better system than its predecessor, has encouraged capacity building on a national level. The Philippines was the first to institute a capacity building initiative, organized by the ALAP in IRRI, last July. Most of the 40 participants committed themselves to participate in AGRIS and to develop an electronic central database of Philippine agricultural literature to create an increased awareness of local agricultural output.

Current Advances in ICT and Increased Library Capability for Knowledge Dissemination and Sharing
Recent advances in ICT have equipped libraries and information professionals to the extent of being capable of providing instant access to information. Sharing of resources is now highly possible with automation.