[Mapserver-users] creating shape files

[akreider@nd.edu (Aaron Kreider)]

I'm trying to convert my data into a format that can be used by Mapserver (or more 
specifically Mapscript). The data currently resides in a regular mysql table.

Does Mapserver only use shape files? And if so, how do I create a shape file?  I've 
searched to find free utilities (I do not want to buy Arcview 3) that will do it for me or 
to try and find an explanation of what the format is (so I could do it myself), but 
haven't found anything.

I'd appreciate help on this.

Aaron