Most community networks draw on a wide range of subject expertise in many areas and provide the community with access to electronic mail, bulletin boards, and discussion groups. The emphasis for such networks is on local issues and local interests. Because a community network may be viewed as a service to its community, the network's impact often depends on its content and organization. This Network Notes will briefly describe the design, purpose, and content of community networks. Future Network Notes will examine the concept of a Free-Net and its relationship to a community network.
Most community networks strive to provide their users with free or low-cost community information.
Free or low-cost access increases the number of individuals able to view local information which may otherwise be inaccessible and unaffordable. This goal has resulted in community networks also striving to provide computing facilities for those without ready access to the technology. For example, some communities are recycling older computer models and placing terminals in free public access sites, such as public libraries or laundromats. Other characteristics of community networks include their low budgets, emphasis on local ownership, and maintenance by volunteers. Moreover, involvement of citizens at the local level ensures that content on these networks is uniquely relevant to the needs of the local user community.