This list includes details about indexing software, useful publications, etc. Its aim is to prevent the list getting clogged with these common questions. The subscription message gives details of how to write to the list and reply to other messages. Most subscribers start by lurking, that is, reading messages to get a feel for the tone of the list before replying. Many then introduce themselves in their first message as a 'newbie', and receive warm welcomes to the list.
Subscribers are mainly book, journal and online indexers.
Different perspectives on indexing are given by editors, academics, and technical writers. Many subscribers are 'wannabes' who are studying indexing, or hoping to branch out from related fields such as librarianship. At the moment subscribers come mainly from the United States and Great Britain, with a smattering from Europe, Canada and Australia. There are many more subscribers than contributors, so your writings reach more people than you might expect. As many newbies have commented, Index-Lers in general are helpful and dedicated.