What is a Listserv?

When a large number of people share an interest in a topic an easy way to read about that topic and share information about it is to form a Listserv and allow email users to join it by subscribing if interested.

A Listserv allows a user to send a message via email to everyone that has subscribed to the list. All members receive the email message. If a member replies to the message then all members receive the reply as well.

The difference between a listserv and using your email software to make a mailing list in your address book is that

• the listserv members voluntarily join the list
• you don't need to know the email addresses for them
• you don't have to maintain the list
• all users share the list.

Listservs Wikipedia Definition

Listservs are commonly used to distribute:

• messages
• replies and discussion
• electronic magazines called e-zines
• email newsletters
• news, business (stock quotes, etc.) and daily events

Common variations of Listservs include:

• moderated versus un-moderated - if moderated, someone screens the messages for appropriate content before they are distributed to the list users; un-moderated messages are freely sent to all list members
• distribution only; no replies possible
• participative lists where members freely reply and join in a discussion and exchange of information

The same technology and email protocols can be used to conveniently engage in commerce and marketing to distribute:

• notices, memos, agendas and other business communications
• educational messages
• electronic coupons for ecommerce
• commercial messages
• spam - unsolicited advertisements and messages

How to Join a Listserv

You can join a listserv by either:

1. filling out an online form at the Listservs website
2. emailing the Listserv a message asking to join

In the second case the email message should be kept very simple and usually must follow the protocol below.

Soon, sometimes very soon, you will receive an email response indicating that you are now subscribed. Read the message carefully.

• it may require confirmation so that other people can't sign you up
• it will contain instructions about how to unsubscribe (you may wish to file and keep this email message for future reference) Most messages distributed will have a footer reminding you how to unsubscribe as well
• It may give tips about proper conduct, content and other guidance and listserv expectations of members

NOTE: Listservs have two addresses that you need to keep track of...

1. The Listservs' address - this is where you send the subscribe and unsubscribe commands and other commands.
   see below
2. The List Address - the email address you use to send a message to everyone on the list

Finding a Listserv to Join

There are tens of thousands of listservs on almost any and all topics from the news delivered each day to science fiction writers critiquing and sharing their stories.

You can use search engines to find list of listservs to join or try the links below.

CataLists
NIH Listservs
Students

Receiving Listserv Messages

They come automatically to you via your email. You don't have to do anything but open your email client software and click "Get Messages).

It is a good idea to "Lurk" for a while before participating and replying. You need to understand what is appropriate and what isn't. Generally, trying to sell something to or through a listserv is very unwelcome!

Listserv Commands

The table below has commands for managing your listserv user status and to get information about the other listserv members