Featured in this issue:

Dear Reader,

As the diverse nature of this issue illustrates, DataBits continues to be a platform for exchanging wide-ranging ideas and resources for strategically and practically improving the practice of scientific Information Management.

This issue features an article on career development in the field of Information Management by Karen Baker, a longtime LTER Information Manager who also conducts theoretical research in this field.

We also hear critical opinions on the pros and cons and progress of networking in LTER, and learn of the status of a new and welcomed network project.

The "Editorial" section has been renamed "Commentary" in order to capture the experience of community participants and to suggest that observations and opinions presented are open to dialogue.

We also added a new section - "Good Tools and Programs" - for sharing experiences with third party tools and utilities, which starts off with three very handy contributions.

Finally, this issue concludes with discussions and suggestions for further reading and a far from complete calendar promoting Information Management related meetings and conferences.