The document discusses using whole genome sequencing (WGS) and building a global genome library as powerful research and public health tools. It describes the Global Meningitis Genome Library initiative which aims to create a comprehensive, representative collection of WGS data for four major causes of meningitis. The initiative will integrate this genome library within the PubMLST.org platform for open access data sharing, analysis and visualization to support epidemiological research and surveillance on a global scale.