Acknowledgments

This edition supersedes the Area Handbook for Austria, published in 1976. The authors wish to acknowledge their use of portions of that edition in the preparation of the current book.

The authors also are grateful to individuals in various United States government agencies who gave their time and special knowledge to provide information and perspective. These individuals include Ralph K. Benesch, who oversees the Country Studies/Area Handbook Program for the Department of the Army. Frank J. LaScala reviewed portions of the manuscript and provided military photographs. In addition, the authors wish to thank various members of the staff of the Embassy of Austria in Washington, especially Hedwig Sommer, and of the Austrian National Tourist Office in New York for their assistance.

Various members of the staff of the Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress assisted in the preparation of the book. Sandra W. Meditz made helpful suggestions during her review of all parts of the book. Tim L. Merrill assisted in the preparation of some of the maps, checked the content of all the maps, and reviewed the sections on geography and telecommunications. Thanks also go to David P. Cabitto, who provided graphics support; Wayne Horn, who designed the cover and chapter art; Marilyn L. Majeska, who managed editing and edited portions of the manuscript; Laura C. Wells, who helped prepare the Country Profile, tables, and Bibliography; Andrea T. Merrill, who managed production; and Barbara Edgerton, Alberta Jones King, and Izella Watson, who did the word processing.

Others who contributed were Harriett R. Blood and the firm of Greenhorne and O'Mara, who assisted in the preparation of maps and charts; Martha E. Hopkins, who edited portions of the manuscript; Sheila L. Ross, who performed the final prepublication editorial review; and Joan C. Cook, who prepared the Index. The Library of Congress Composing Unit prepared camera-ready copy under the direction of Peggy Pixley. The inclusion of photographs was made possible by the generosity of various public and private agencies.