Using a combination of case study materials, theoretical reflection and critical analysis this book explores four central issues for the study of new media and their impact on their user communities Impact of convergence on traditional media - explores the implications of media convergence for everyday media use and for the policy context Activism - case studies explore how user communities with special access needs are ensuring they are not denied access to the emerging new media world Access - an overview of areas where the introduction of new media has created debate about which social and cultural groups will benefit and about new media policy Participation - examines the implications of the ommodification of information for the way audience formations are structured and operate