Allowing new members to add themselves to the database?

Allowing new members to add themselves to the database?

I want to allow people to add themselves to my database from a web page. I realize I need to make the application public. However I don't want anyone to be able to read the database, and I don't want them to have to fill out all the fields. How do I restrict reading and limit the fields offered (through a view?).

-- Kristy Dyer