Envision a world overflowing with information. Here at the National Institute of Informatics (NII) in Tokyo, that world becomes a tangible reality. NII isn’t just a building. It’s a nexus of informatics research, a place where the very fabric of information science is woven. Established in April 2000, NII stands as a testament to Japan’s dedication to exploring the ever-expanding digital frontier. Its mission? To advance the study of informatics and create systems for sharing scientific knowledge.
The National Institute of Informatics didn’t spring up overnight. Its roots trace back to a 1973 proposal by the Ministry of Education for an improved system of academic information sharing. This led to the 1976 creation of the Research Center for Library and Information Science at the University of Tokyo. This evolved into the Center for Bibliographic Information in 1983, and then again into the National Center for Science Information Systems (NACSIS) in 1986. Finally, in 2000, NACSIS transformed into the NII we see today.
Located in Tokyo’s Chiyoda district, the NII occupies a significant portion of the National Center of Sciences building. It shares this space with other prestigious institutions. These include Hitotsubashi University Graduate School of International Corporate Strategy and the Center for University Finance. Inside its walls, NII researchers delve into the theoretical and practical aspects of informatics. They develop new techniques for searching and organizing massive databases. They also leverage advancements in high-speed networks. NII collaborates with universities and other research institutions, fostering a vibrant environment of shared knowledge. It actively participates in international collaborations. This includes research exchange programs and the development of international standards. NII even hosts an international internship program, funding students from around the globe to conduct research in Japan. Beyond research, NII offers a Ph.D. program in informatics through the Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI).
One of NII’s most remarkable contributions is Webcat Plus. It’s a searchable database, part of NII’s GeNii project (Global Environment for Networked Intellectual Information). Webcat Plus allows users to explore the holdings of research institutes and university libraries across Japan. Containing information on millions of titles, it is available in both English and Japanese. Future plans include integrating the entire National Diet Library collection. The National Institute of Informatics truly stands at the forefront of information science. It constantly evolves, reflecting the dynamic nature of the digital world. It stands as a hub connecting researchers, students, and the public with the boundless world of information.