After learning the basics of computers and Internet, there was a strong desire for learning and skills-based information and development services. This parallels the findings of national research (Ekos). These findings suggest a clear recognition of the importance of skills and a readiness by these individuals to improve their economic and social participation though training. This interest in self-development by lower skilled Canadians affords opportunities for community organizations to provide a range of innovative formal and informal approaches to education and skills upgrading (for example, schools, NGO’s, literacy groups, labour councils, business partners, etc.). Moreover, the availability and continuing development of CLNs and CAP sites will be important resources in supporting and acting as a catalysts for integrated community-based learning, training and, economic and social development strategies.

Community Organizations and Networking

The mandate, resources and scope of activities of a community organization have implications on the degree of success of providing the public with technical access to the Internet, and using these resources in combination with other programs and services to achieve broader capacity development objectives. These broader functions are constituent of enhancing the overall economic and social capacities of people using the facilities, and in turn, communities at large.

At a basic level, public access sites have a role as public services allowing users who have some degree of expertise to use the Internet. Properly located throughout communities, the role of public access sites is not unlike that of public libraries. At a more substantive level?that of capacity development (individual and community)?the Toronto study clearly demonstrates the importance of using computers and the Internet as resources to support a range of separate and interlinked services and activities (for example, community outreach, job skills, literacy, seniors’ programs, linking with external organizations and their services).¹¹

¹¹ Report on Local Residents and the Internet, PIAC, 2000, p.40.