Until 1980 online information retrieval and dissemination services were for the most part based in the United States. Today, however, a variety of information services as well as packet-switched networks are emerging in other countries. Although U.S. developed software still predominates in overall use, activity in Europe and other countries is developing rapidly. Information access services are coming to be seen not only as economically viable, but also as an essential part of each country's national interests. A rivalry between government subsidized services and competitive nonsubsidized services is emerging. Competitive services discourage monopolistic practices and offer the user protection from access controls and price exploitation with the assurance of high quality service and supplier responsiveness. Government subsidized services have encouraged tariff barriers and bilateral agreements detrimental to the user's interests; a user's bill of rights is needed in the areas of privacy, charges, domestic and international telecommunications, availability of services, access to source documents, and encouragement of competition. (RAA)