In the summer of 1995, Middlesex County got its first
Community Access Project site at the Glencoe Library in the
southwest of the county. The site had access to the Internet on
a new computer through a dial-up connection. The program was a
success and the following summer more sites across the county
were added.
For several years the Community Access Project served
all of Middlesex County through the public library system. It
provided new hardware and software as times changed and it aided
in the development of community websites. It also provided the
public with the opportunity to receive free Internet and
computer training in many different subject areas.
The involvement of the Middlesex County Library
system in the CAP program indicates their dedication to the
promotion of Internet use, following the principles set down by
the Canadian Library
Association.
Other services that were provided include free
website creation for non-profit groups, Internet advice for
local businesses and technology seminars on various topics for
groups of all ages and skill levels.
Today, there are 15 official CAP sites at branch
libraries throughout the county. The needs of the public with
regard to the Internet are changing. As a result, the Community
Access Project is currently going through a restructuring phase
at the national level. Student trainers are no longer required
as much since many people are now familiar with the workings of
the Internet.
This website is intended to be the culmination of all
the hard work done by CAP students in Middlesex County since the
beginning. It is hoped that it will serve as a useful reference
for all those who access it. If new developments in CAP occur
then the information is sure to be posted here when it comes to
Middlesex.
