The Commonwealth Secretariat has found that there is a need throughout the developing world for a book describing the setting up and operation of rural learning resource centres. On behalf of the Secretariat, and using her own practical experience, Shirley Giggey has drawn up this comprehensive training guide.She first provides a complete description of the best method for setting up a rural resource centre, right from the initial idea and planning (taking local circumstances into account), through to financial and staffing arrangements. She covers suitable designs for the buildings to be used and their interior layout, with much detailed advice.The practical, day-to-day running of the centre is dealt with clearly, simply and thoroughly. The need for methodical arrangements in acquiring and storing materials, and how (and even whether!) to lend them out are covered at length. Duplicating and other services are examined. Such matters as keeping of accounts, keeping records of the centre's activities, filing, stock-taking, insurance, maintenance and repair are amply explained. Samples of form letters and accounts pages are included. There is a list of organisations that provide useful materials.The main business of the centre – the gathering and selecting of materials and making them available – is given pride of place, but the many other possible services that can be offered are suggested and described. The effective use of resources is the aim throughout, an a fund-raising is shown to have a continuing importance. Suggestions are given on all relevant topics.This guide offers workable, solid, thorough advice and information for anyone in the developing countries who is either working in this field already or who wishes to do so.It is written for anyone living in or working with rural communities (community leaders, teachers, extension workers, women's group leaders, youth group leaders, etc.) and who feel their community could benefit from having informational and learning resources. It is written as clearly and simply as possible and uses examples from various parts of the world. There are ample illustrations and checklists.

Written on behalf of the Commonwealth Secretariat, this training manual describes the setting up and operation of rural learning resource centres.

Our current food system has decimated rural communities and confined the choices of urban consumers. Even while America continues to ramp up farm production to astounding levels, net farm income is now lower than at the onset of the Great Depression, and one out of every eight Americans faces hunger. But a healthier and more equitable food system is possible. In Building Community Food Webs, Ken Meter shows how grassroots food and farming leaders across the U.S. are tackling these challenges by constructing civic networks. Overturning extractive economic structures, these inspired leaders are engaging low-income residents, farmers, and local organizations in their quest to build stronger communities. Community food webs strive to build health, wealth, capacity, and connection. Their essential element is building greater respect and mutual trust, so community members can more effectively empower themselves and address local challenges. Farmers and researchers may convene to improve farming practices collaboratively. Health clinics help clients grow food for themselves and attain better health. Food banks engage their customers to challenge the root causes of poverty. Municipalities invest large sums to protect farmland from development. Developers forge links among local businesses to strengthen economic trade. Leaders in communities marginalized by our current food system are charting a new path forward. Building Community Food Webs captures the essence of these efforts, underway in diverse places including Montana, Hawai‘i, Vermont, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, and Minnesota. Addressing challenges as well as opportunities, Meter offers pragmatic insights for community food leaders and other grassroots activists alike.