Library and information science education today must prepare future professionals to leverage various technologies and develop professional networks that will propel them into future careers. Increasingly, today's information professionals need to understand how to create identities, build relationships, and engage in productive work with others in an online, digital environment. A community of practice framework may help to promote the kinds of interactions and identity work needed in an online course and work environment. Additionally, the application of a community of practice framework in an online setting may serve to mitigate the geographic and professional isolation that characterizes rural librarianship.