A new generation of integrated services local networks (ISLN's) is needed to yield to local area users the provision of voice, data, and images in a cost-effective manner. Besides high-speed and service integration features, these advanced multiservice communication systems have to also provide powerful interconnection with both public networks and traditional LAN's. So conception and design of the interconnection units, i.e., gateways and bridges, have to be carried out contextually with the network architecture definition. The paper addresses the interworking solutions adopted for a local integrated optical network (LION) currently under development. The architecture of bridges and gateways allowing users belonging to different LION subnetworks to communicate with public networks and commercial systems is also described. In particular, the interconnection with the integrated services digital network (ISDN) is highlighted.