What is a listserve?

A listserve is an e-mail discussion group. Members of the group can post requests, relay information or gather advice by using a listserve. It's an easy way to communicate and network with your colleagues since messages are sent to your own e-mail address.

Can anyone join a listserve?

Some listserves are open to anyone, others have certain restrictions. Most listserves are unmoderated which means that messages are uncensored and go directly to the group.

What kinds of things can I post on the listserve?

Different listserves accept different kinds of announcements although most of them do not accept unsolicited advertisements (also know as spam). It is best to stick to the purpose and topic of the listserve when posting information. It's a great idea to "lurk" for awhile before posting a message. Lurking is the act of reading the postings without responding to them. You'll get a good idea of what's appropriate for that list.

Does it cost anything to join?

There is no cost to subscribe to a listserve.

Can I send attachments to the list?

DO NOT send attachments to the list. If you have something you want to send by attachment post a short description of the attachment on the listserve and ask that people e-mail you directly to get the information.

I don't like what is being posted on the listserve. What can I do?

One thing you can do is e-mail the person responsible for the posting and work it out between you. You have a right to voice your complaint but do not post it to the entire group. This just adds more mail for people who already have too much to do. Another thing you could do is e-mail the list owner with your complaint. Of course if you really aren't enjoying the discussion you can always unsubscribe.

I'm still not sure about this particular listserve. Is there any way to get more information?

Sure! You can e-mail the listserve owner with your request for more information. Again, make sure you e-mail the listserve owner and not the listserve.