Currency 101
Use the links below to learn more.Frequently Asked Questions
Local Currency Glossary (Adobe PDF)
A glossary of economic terms related to Local Currencies and supporting local economies. (17 pages)
Money: Print Your Own!
YES! Magazine article, spring 1997
Small Change
Orion Magazine article by Bill McKibben
The Idea of a Local Economy
Orion Magazine article by Wendell Berry
Local Currencies: Catalysts for Sustainable Regional Economies
Article by Robert Swann and Susan Witt, February 1995
Truth, Lies and Authenticity
Famed British Economist David Boyle on authenticity, from Resurgence magazine.
10 Reasons why Homegrown Economy Matters (Adobe PDF)
and 50 ways to revive it. The full report (based on the poster, below) from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance - great in-depth information about how to become truly active in protecting your local economy. (71 pages)
Economic Study I (Adobe PDF)
One of many studies that show the increased economic benefit of local businesses over chain stores. (28 pages)
Economic Study II - Executive Summary (Adobe PDF)
Another economic study from Austin, TX that compares a local Horizon-like bookstore (Book People) with Borders. Must Read! (5 pages)
Economic Study II - Full Text (Adobe PDF)
The full text of the above report. (16 pages)
Economic Study III (Adobe PDF)
A third study showing how money spent at local businesses (in Midcoast Maine) has 3x the return rate of moeny spent with the chain stores. (4 pages)
Economic Study IV (Adobe PDF)
Another study from Toledo, OH.
Economic Study V (Adobe PDF)
A study of Big Box retail in Austin, TX.
Economic Study VI (Adobe PDF)
This is a similar study from the Andersonville area in North Chicago, IL.
Judy Wickes (White Dog Cafe) Lecture (Adobe PDF)
Judy Wickes talks about the importance of small local businesses.
Why Support Locally Owned Businesses (Adobe PDF)
10 reasons - makes a great poster for your business (1 page)
Rules for a Local Economy (Adobe PDF)
by Wendell Berry. Another great poster for your house or business.
Big Box Map (Adobe PDF)
Shows comparative sizes of big box stores.
New Rules Website - Retail
Links to a number of great pieces on the importance of vibrant local businesses.
Reclaim Democracy Independent Business Links
Slightly lefty site that contains some common sense information on local economics.
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