A legend is a list of layers in a map that appears on the left in ArcIMS Author.

Beneath each layer's name, the legend displays the symbology used to represent that layer's features. The check box to the left of each layer indicates whether or not that layer's features are visible.

The order in which the layers are listed in the legend is important. The layer at the top draws on top of those below it. The layers should be rearranged so that layers forming the background of the map are listed at the bottom. To change the drawing order of a layer, click it and drag it to a new position in the legend, or right-click it, point to Move Layer, and choose one of the options in the list that appears.

You can change the width of the legend by dragging its right border to the left or to the right. You will want to increase the width of the legend to see longer layer names. Use the left and right arrows in the top right corner to maximize and minimize the legend's width.

You can turn the legend off by clicking the View menu and unchecking the Legend choice.