Web-Writing in One Minute--and Beyond.

This paper describes how librarians can teach patrons the basics of hypertext markup language (HTML) so that patrons can publish their own homepages on the World Wide Web. With proper use of handouts and practice time afterwards, the three basics of HTML can be conveyed in only 60 seconds. The three basics are: the basic template of Web tags, used for all web pages, which can be copied from a standing file; certain typed characters that cannot be used as is; and a tag for a hyperlink. Suggestions are provided for customizing the 60-second web lesson for the needs of different patrons. Before learning any tags beyond the basics, a person should plan their Web page, and decide how their subject should be divided. The paper provides other basic tags: for clearly organizing and emphasizing parts of a page; for adding more "flash" by adding images; and for adding an e-mail link tag. Perhaps the ultimate goal of a Web teacher is to encourage people not only to complement their Web browsing with their own page, but to begin exchanging specific e-mail with others about their pages and interests. This level of engagement can truly show people the value of information and the newest methods of finding it. (SWC)