Freenets, community technology hubs - whatever!

Well that's been my impression, based on the sole experience of my local freenet the Vancouver Community Network, VCN.  Don't get me wrong they're very ... utilitarian.

VCN Vision Statement

The Vancouver Community Network strives to be an inclusive, multicultural, community-based organization which ensures the free, accessible electronic creation and exchange of the broadest range of information, experience, ideas and wisdom.

VCN Mission Statement

The Vancouver Community Network owns, operates and promotes a free, publicly accessible, non-commercial, community computer utility in the Lower Mainland of BC which provides a public space on the Internet.