Dear Amelia:

You wrote, "I think your points about successful co-ops are very wise."

This knowledge is truly more the result of hard experience than in-born
wisdom, but thank you for the kind compliment.

and you also said, "I am thinking
these days specifically about the very nature of how people can work
successfully together.  The issues are often the same, no matter what label
you attach to the effort."

This is so true.  It seems people also have to want to make any group
situation work or at least be willing to be coaxed into it.  You're
situation with the production of the map book has the advantage of all
willing participants and probably all competent as well.  You must be
dealing with some difficulties or you would not be so conscious of the
process.  Hopefully when it is done the good part will more than outweigh
the not so great.  Many hands make light the work, and many hearts and minds
in the same direction make light your own.  Just because this sounds a
little preachy doesn't make it less true.  Good luck on all aspects of this
effort.
                                                Miriam