This paper provides an introduction to the concepts of electronic mail and networks in non-technical language. It defines electronic mail, explains how it works, and describes academic networks that provide electronic mail services, especially BITNET and NSFNET. It explains how university administrators use electronic mail and networks for day-to-day communication, for making data requests, for conducting surveys of colleagues, and for exchanging information with interest groups. Also explained are procedures for getting connected to a network, costs of network membership, and suggestions for using the networks efficiently and effectively. A bibliography of 13 items is included. Also included as appendixes are a list of countries connected directly to BITNET/NetNorth/EARN, a list of other networks with gateways to BITNET/NetNorth/EARN, and a list NSFNET Mid-level Networks. (JDD)