The first edition of Dr. Shaffer's Community Economics: Economic Structure and Change in Smaller Communities provided readers with a comprehensive understanding of the many non-farm economic activities in rural America. In this complete revision of that classic edition, authors Deller and Marcouiller join Shaffer to review the economics of smaller communities, with continued emphasis on what it takes to set and achieve community development goals. The text also demonstrates how local experts can be used to identify problems, form solutions, and maintain community support for long-term goals. To date, the main body of economic research and literature has neglected the economics of smaller communities. Community Economics: Linking Theory and Practice fills the information void. This text serves as a comprehensive guide on rural economies for economists, regional planners, rural sociologists and geographers. Additionally, it acts as an issue-oriented handbook of development strategies for government workers, planning and zoning officials, and others involved in the day-to-day commerce of community development.