diff --git a/README-dev.md b/README-dev.md
index 156c649..b683826 100644
--- a/README-dev.md
+++ b/README-dev.md
@@ -1,6 +1,9 @@
 Notes for NFD developers
 ========================
 
+If you are new to the NDN software community, please read the
+[Contributor's Guide](https://github.com/named-data/NFD/blob/master/CONTRIBUTING.md)
+
 Requirements
 ------------
 
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index f088f2f..c6eff54 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -6,6 +6,9 @@
 For complete documentation, including step-by-step installation instructions and
 tutorials, please visit the [NFD homepage](https://named-data.net/doc/NFD/).
 
+If you are new to the NDN software community, please read README-dev.md and the
+[Contributor's Guide](https://github.com/named-data/NFD/blob/master/CONTRIBUTING.md).
+
 ## Overview
 
 NFD is a network forwarder that implements and evolves together with the Named Data
diff --git a/docs/index.rst b/docs/index.rst
index 9bc19ef..4903931 100644
--- a/docs/index.rst
+++ b/docs/index.rst
@@ -46,6 +46,10 @@
   A comprehensive guide to the design and implementation of NFD. The developer's guide also contains
   suggestions and hints for anyone wanting to modify or extend NFD.
 
+* `NDN Software Contributor's Guide
+  <https://github.com/named-data/NFD/blob/master/CONTRIBUTING.md>`__
+  (guide for newcomers to the NDN community of software)
+
 * `NFD Wiki <https://redmine.named-data.net/projects/nfd/wiki>`_
 
   + `NFD Management protocol <https://redmine.named-data.net/projects/nfd/wiki/Management>`_