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The article describes how Coquitlam Public Library in British Columbia moved its public access computers (PAC) from a Windows-based to a Linux-based operating system in 2003. In the mid-1990s the library started offering PAC to its patrons by using an Industry Canada Community Access Program grant and funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Over the years, the library managed to afford a few replacements but could not keep up with the general wear and tear and changes in technology. In 2003, the head of the library's systems department attended a conference in Toronto where she saw a demonstration of DiscoverStation, a Linux-based public access solution developed by Userful. One of DiscoverStation's most interesting features is that it allows up to 10 people to work independently from a single computer. The system is built specifically for public access use in libraries. The library decided to adopt DiscoverStation, and after the evaluation period, it made a 3-year commitment to DiscoverStation and purchased four computers to support 20 stations. In late December 2003, each branch of the library got one six-station box and one four-station box. A Userful representative was present to help in the set up and installation, and to do some initial staff training after the stations were ready.

States that the Canadian Library Association introduced the web-based tool kit, Net Safe, Net Smart. Content of the kit which helps libraries manage and communicate about Internet use in the library; Issues of Internet access, filtering, and children.

The article discusses federal stimulus funds to be used for libraries in the U.S. and Canada. Libraries in the U.S. will be granted federal stimulus money to expand broadband access, however, in Canada the funds will be used to expand libraries and create new ones. The Canadian government is granting $18.3 million to the Halifax Central Library which is still in planning. The government in Nova Scotia is giving $13 million and the Halifax Regional Municipality $23.7 million.

Reports on grievances filed by several staffers at the Ottawa Public Library in Ontario. Issue of the library's unrestricted Internet access policy; Efforts of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) to change library policy; How staffers are forced to see sexually explicit material; Outlook for privacy screens on all public access computers and filters; How the controversy in Ottawa has affected other librarians.

Presents message from the co-presidents of the Canadian Association of School Libraries. Call for applications to the association's Executive Council positions; Action taken to the proposed changes to the Copyright Act which would require schools to pay a fee for access to free and publicly available Internet resources; Schedule for the annual conference of the Canadian Libraries Association.

This article highlights similarities between single-staff libraries and lighthouses. Single-staff libraries share many characteristics with lighthouses. While library staff don't usually have to deal with tides, storms are part of their way of life. Many small libraries in Canada are autonomous, managed by individual volunteer boards. They are fiercely proud and provide a service that is unique and tailored to their community's needs. Single-staff branches have unique issues related to distance and isolation. Technology compensates for some of the challenges, but does not entirely overcome them.

Presents programs aiding the development of rural and remote libraries in Canada. Establishment of public Internet access sites; Provision of computers through the Gates Foundation; Creation of training laboratories in many communities.

Highlights the 'Spin the Web: The Oakville Internet Show,' sponsored by the Oakville Public Library in Ontario. Development of the show; Objective of the Internet show; Components resulting to the success of the show.

Focuses on the role of public libraries in implementing the citizen-centered service program of the government of Canada. Problems in providing Internet access to the people; Role of public libraries as source of information about government; Details of the government directories.

The article discusses a debate over Internet access control at public library computers resulting from a case of a man in London, Ontario found viewing child pornography at that town's public library. A city councilor has proposed placing filtering software on the library's computers to block access to pornographic Web sites. Another councilor notes that previous filtering software had to be removed to prevent a lawsuit over its constitutionality.

This article focuses on new services provided by Canadian libraries. Libraries play a dual role in addressing issues regarding the Digital Divide. Public libraries are an access point to the Internet for 8.2% of Canadians. Many libraries also host a wide variety of resources online, from catalogues to online books and magazines. The availability of high-speed service does not necessarily mean that people can afford it. Almost everyone lives where a dial-up modem on a telephone line could be used.