A longer version of this was posted to Museum-l not too long ago, sorry for the repetition. Suzanne Quigley In an effort to facilitate communication and networking among science centers worldwide, the Association of Science- Technology Centers (ASTC) has launched its electronic forum, ASTC Online. Currently, the forum libraries contain information on ASTC publications, and the ASTC Traveling Exhibition Service, ASTC membership lists and forms, YouthALIVE! program descriptions, the ASTC Job Bank list and other often requested information. Messages posted on the boards vary from inquiries about exhibitions and programs to postings about upcoming conferences and workshops. ASTC is considering an area for advertisement of products and services. We are also working on a schedule of guest speakers and look forward to regular online discussion groups. One of the many reasons ASTC chose CompuServe is because it allows us to provide library files, message boards and conference rooms in one central location. ASTC Online is a private forum on CompuServe. Having a private forum allows us to provide a flat rate monthly fee rather than hourly charges for use. It also provides an area for those interested in the science center and museum profession to discuss current topics and concerns. At this time, ASTC does not have the staff or equipment to maintain a more extensive service on the Internet. A special account number is needed to access this private forum. These accounts are obtained with a start-up kit available from ASTC. The cost of the start-up kits is $25 for members and $29 for non-members. (For members ordering before October 31st the cost is $20.) The first month of access to ASTC Online and CompuServe are free of charge. Monthly fees are $15/mo for unlimited access to ASTC Online and $8.95 connect fee for CompuServe Basic Services (alternative connect plans are available from CompuServe). It is possible to Telnet to CompuServe from the Internet, but an account is still needed to use the services. If you are interested in participating in ASTC Online respond with your name, mailing address and the type of platform (DOS, Win, Mac) to Morgan Passiment ([log in to unmask]) or write to ASTC, 1025 Vermont Ave NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005. You may call 202/783/7200 or fax 202/783/7207 for more information. Bonnie VanDorn Executive Director Association of Science-Technology Ctrs