The History of Fathom
Fathom Knowledge Network, founded in 1999, launched its Web site in the spring of 2000 with the goal of providing high quality educational resources to a global audience through the Internet. The Fathom academic consortium grew to include 14 leading educational and cultural institutions dedicated to that goal. The Fathom Web site ceased operations in March 2003.

During its operation, the Fathom Web site received visitors from more than 52 countries. Fathom users included students, professionals, educators, and lifelong learners. Over 65,000 of Fathom's visitors enrolled in courses and seminars.

Fathom expanded its content and created new formats to help reduce barriers to online learning, such as free seminar series and interdisciplinary learning centers. In 2001, Fathom was honored by Yahoo, and then in 2002 by Forbes, as a leading educational Web site. Fathom's alliances with the BBC, the AARP, and Elderhostel brought online learning to new and diverse audiences.