The authors of this book argue that telecommunications can play a catalytic role in rural economic development. Unlike other strategies that target specific industries or regions, enhanced telecommunications can help a broad array of industries in various rural regions. Contents: Rural America in the Information Age; The New Economy of Rural America; Telecommunications Policy Issues Affecting Rural America; A Portrait of the Telecommunications Infrastructure in Rural America Today; Toward the Year 2000: Policy Goals and Recommendations. Co-published with the Aspen Institute.