Here are links to a couple of Wikipedia articles about some pioneers of the modern homesteading movement. (Their pioneering was related to the conditions of the Great Depression, though philosophically and practically many of their ideas still make a whole lot of sense.)
These are people who lived the lifestyle, did research to help themselves and other to live it, thought a lot about it, and wrote about it. Their books are primarily interesting for the portrayal of their personal adventures with homesteading and related things – but there are also countless hints and tips that can have practical value for you. Neighborhood cooperation is one of the important principles to these authors.
I know that the Nearings' most popular books (Living the Good Life and Continuing the Good Life, being two that are considered "classics") have been kept in-print and available. Quite inspirational.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_and_Scott_Nearing
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ralph_Borsodi