Digestibles

Information to Save Lives
The Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) demonstrates the safety benefits of developing information technology (IT) infrastructure in Safety Nets: Protecting Lives and Property in the Information Age. This third report in a series, illustrates cases where grant recipients of the Telecommunications and Information Infrastructure Assistance Program (TIIAP) have enhanced the emergency response of firefighters and other public safety units.

Contact: Department of Commerce NTIA, 1401 Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20230; Fax 202/501-5136 or visit www.ntia.doc.gov
Cost: Free

Telecommunications Research
The Illinois Institute for Rural Affair’s Spring 2001 rural research report entitled, Starting a Telecommunications Plan in Your Community, identifies ways in which rural communities can aggregate their telecommunication demands to attract service providers. Author Tom Bonnett directs readers to websites providing examples and offers a planning guide outline.

Contact: Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, 309/298-2637,www.iira.org
Cost: Free download on-line or ordered [11 pages]

Growing Rural Tourism
a report prepared by the National Trust for Historic Preservation with support from an interagency working group, highlights case studies across the nation to show how rural regions can successfully develop tourism programs. A list of program partners accompanies each study and an emphasis on strong leadership is highlighted throughout the report.

Contact: The Rural Information Center, at www.nal.usda.gov/ric/ricpubs/stories.htm, 800/633-7701
Cost: Free