Community networks. Lessons from Blacksburg, Virginia

An inside look at the five-year evolution of the Blacksburg Electronic Village, from its original concept in 1991 to how it is managed today. Addresses the social, economic, technical, and educational impact of living in a "connected town," describing how community members use the network, and exploring what has and what hasn't worked. Examines the decisions and responsibilities that life in an "electronic village" thrusts upon civic leaders, educators, parents, and business professionals. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Andrew Cohill is the director of the Blacksburg Electronic Village and an adjunct professor in the department of architecture at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where he also received his Ph.D. in architecture and environmental design. Andrea Kavanaugh is the director of research for the Blacksburg Electronic Village and a research fellow with the department of communications studies at Virginia Tech. She earned her Ph.D. in environmental design and planning from Virginia Tech.