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Librarians are key players in bringing communities together. With the help of the Internet, they are in a position to revolutionize the way users access information and come together as a result. Indeed, libraries can function as both hubs to circulate local, national, and global information and as networks of local agencies, nonprofits, community activities, resources, events, and contacts.

Building from detailed research, this forward-looking new book addresses the ways that libraries can harness the power of the Internet to provide digitized community information to local audiences. Using its proven methods, hands-on tools, and best practices developed in libraries across the country, any library can design and build a dynamic and unifying community information site. Featuring three of the nation's leading community network sites (Pittsburgh's Three Rivers Free-Net, Suburban Chicago's NorthStarNet, and Portland, Oregon's CascadeLink), expert author team Durrance and Pettigrew outline innovative ways to present information for and about your community.

Featured are 23 examples of best practices from libraries around the country that help you approach:

Access issues and the digital divide Community information services Interactivity Specialized content Local government agency content Civic partnerships

And 14 ways to improve your Community Information site, such as:

Providing users with greater specificity in searches Following interface design principles to address information overload Indicating sources, credentials, and date of entry

This well-researched, instructional guide will help you to truly create a nexus of information at your library and thereby amplify its visibility, prominence, and place in the community.