[Discuss] Webcam for LINUX advice

[Murray Strome]

My sons have recently purchased webcams (for Windows XP, naturally).  I 
was wondering if anyone on the list has any positive experience with 
connecting webcams to his/her LINUX box and how to effectively use it.  
One I am thinking about is:

Logitech Quickcam Messenger Webcam (Future shop #961460-0215)  $29.99 
after $20 instant savings.

    "Logitech QuickCam Messenger lets you get closer instantly by
    allowing you to communicate live via the popular instant messaging
    communication programs. QuickCam Messenger's built-in mic lets you
    talk freely with live, synchronized audio and full-screen video. A
    cool new metallic blue color and a new flexible LCD clip round out
    this new offering from Logitech, the most trusted webcam brand
    around the world."

Under system requirements, it says it needs Windows XP.  However,  I 
imagine that it might work with LINUX.  The next question would be, 
"what would I need to use to allow my sons to see the video from it, 
again using LINUX"

Even more important, if they have webcams using Windows XP, how can I 
see their video. I currently do not have any Instant Messaging software 
installed, and I would definitely want to avoid MSN if at all possible.

Thanks for any advice -- as you might be able to glean from this, I am a 
complete novice in this area!

Murray