This is probably very elementary. But, I'm hopelessly confused! I want to build a Directory site with national search capability so that visitors can find listed resources in their local area.
Are there templates for such a site? Or, do I need to be using some kind of CGI type of scripts? Will I have to use a different language than html?
Can anybody help me out ... I'm just an old dinosaur trying to join the 21st century! Thanks!

An html based version would involve ploughing through a several layers of menu, on the other hand you need and html route through the site for search engines to navigate.

You will probably need to design your own layout althougth personally I would find that easier than adapting somebody elses template. Work out your design with pencil and paper first.

Once you have the html version up and running and a decent amount of content on your pages then think about a new home page with some more sophisticated navigation.