Information on international health disparities and poverty can sometimes be difficult to come by. There are resources out there that index scholarly research and other white papers for accessibility across nations (Ask-A-Librarian for more information on these resources), but they are not as commonly known as tools like PubMed or Web of Knowledge. One of these ‘hidden’ resources is The World Bank most notably, their Open Knowledge Repository.

The World Bank connects networks and institutions worldwide to fight poverty and to help find (and fund) solutions to development challenges.  The World Bank’s recent adoption of an open access policy is part of an effort to democratize their development work by creating openness and accountability, called “open development”.  Increasing the transparency of this large international organization will allow people to build on the work of others is intended to further the work of development and increase trust in the institution. The Open Knowledge Repository is part of this initiative and makes correspondence, pamphlets, and organizational publications freely available on a searchable platform.  The repository also houses data from research conducted by The World Bank and affiliates. The repository has access to formal publications put out by the organization as well as open access to upcoming projects, analytic advisory activities, and board proceedings.

So the next time you are looking for information related to global health problems, consider checking the the resources available from The World Bank.  Also, if  you would like more detailed information about open access and it’s benefits, please take a look at the MSK Library’s open access information page and corresponding FAQs.