The Slashdot technology forum site posted this two part introduction to telescopes for amateur astronomy:

Bruce Berger is an IT guy, but he’s also an amateur astronomer who takes at least one aspect of astronomy more seriously than most sky-watchers. Not content with what he could buy when he first wanted a telescope of his own, Berger set out to make one — it turned out so well, he says he’ll never part with it, and he’s made several others since, and taught many other people to do the same. In this pursuit, he’s also been a long-time member of the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston, including a stint as the group’s president. (Berger’s custom license plate reads “SCPMKR.”)

In the video Berger discusses what to look for in telescopes.

Amateur Astronomer Bruce Berger Talks About Meteors and Telescopes (Video) – Slashdot

In the next video, Berger continues with advice

on telescope selection and purchasing. He mentions Orion, a telescope vendor he seems to respect, along with other sources for both new and used equipment. Which should you buy (or build): A reflector or a refractor telescope? Bruce talks about how you should make your selection based on what you want to view, your skill level, and how much time and/or money you have available.

Amateur Astronomer Bruce Berger Talks About Telescopes, Part II (Video) – Slashdot