AGORA

Today, 23 April, is designated as World Book Day, which offers a chance to celebrate books, authors, publishing and everything related to reading. Through the Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture (AGORA) collection, The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) provides access to thousands of journals, e-books, and other information resources covering agriculture, fisheries, food, nutrition, veterinary science and related biological, environmental and social sciences in public institutions across the world. 

Major scientific books are invaluable sources of high-quality scientific information, crucial for advancing higher education, sharing findings, and informing public policy decisions. However, universities and research institutions in low- and middle-income countries often struggle to provide their students and research teams with access to these resources. This is where AGORA steps in, offering a solution that can significantly enhance an institution's research capabilities. 

FAO’s AGORA stands out by providing free or low-cost access to high-quality scientific books and other relevant information sources to institutions in low- and middle-income countries. The programme's unique aim is to enhance the quality and effectiveness of agricultural research, education and training in these countries. Currently, AGORA offers access to an impressive collection of over 50,000 high-quality scientific books. 

The AGORA collection is one of the five collections that make up Research4Life. Research4Life provides institutions in low- and middle-income countries with online access to more than 200,000 resources, including academic and professional peer-reviewed content. It strives to improve teaching, research, and policymaking in health, agriculture, the environment, and other life, physical, and social sciences.

Registered institutions can see a full list of books available through AGORA here: https://agora.research4life.org/content/books. 

For more information about AGORA and Research4Life, including eligibility requirements, registration, and access to thousands of high-quality resources available, visit www.fao.org/agora.  

To learn more about World Book Day and its relevance to FAO, or to join the conversation about its importance, follow along on social media and use #WorldBookDay.