Once you find one B13S number, you will auto-matically have literally thousands to choose from. The sysops of BBSs are not competitive. They don't care if you use their system exclusively, or if you call up every BBS in existence. Thus, you will almost always find a BBS list on any BBS you call. The list may be nationwide or local, and will detail BBS names, phone numbers, perhaps the sysop's name and special features of the systems. BBSs also usually have a BBS message center, or a place where other sysops can advertise their BBSs- So once you call up that first BBS, you will have the phone numbers for many more. The trouble, for beginners, is finding that first number. To start with, if you know anyone who has a computer and a modem, ask them if they have any BBS numbers.
Many computer users groups, libraries, relig-ious organizations and schools have BBSs. The companies that manufacture moderns and other telecommunications equipment, as well as the software companies, often have BBSs. If one isn't advertised in the packaging, call them on the tele-phone to ask if they have one. Hayes, for instance, has a nation-wide 1-800 BBS you can call to get product information and lists of BBSs from all over the country. The number is 1-800-USRAYES. Computer magazines often list BBS numbers. There are many books on telecommunications, some of which have listings of BBSs across the country in an appendix. There are also several computer phone books that give listings. Additionally, you might find BBSs advertised on com-munity bulletin boards or in neighborhood com-puter stores.
