The Digital Divide

From the article "Binary America: Split in Two By a Digital Divide," I was able to glean some information I did not know. Specifically, I had no idea that different metropolitan areas were trying to create free wifi areas for people to log into. The goal is for people who can't afford high speed Internet to log into it.

Not having Internet access puts families like that of Marcella Morris behind the curve in regard to the ability to search an apply for jobs, for the children to use the Internet to help in their homework, and other "luxuries" that "rich" families have.
While I agree that not having Internet does put families at a disadvantage, I can't help but shake my head at things like the free wireless Internet access project in Charlestown, SC. Yes, it would be great for everyone to have access to the Internet. And it would be even better if that access was free, but for millions of Americans that pay for high speed Internet service, it begs the question: why? Why should I pay when others can get it for free from their community?
While the article does boast that the wifi comes at no cost, the fact is that NOTHING comes at no cost. To be able to provide that kind of wifi serve from a city or town, money will have to be provided to pay for the equipment, its maintenance, and for its expansion due to the never ending addition to people wanting to use the free service.
I would feel much better about it if the Internet providers like Verizon, Comcast, COX, and all the others offered to open wifi up to everyone. Otherwise, if I pay for it, so should everyone else.
The article even stated that a majority of the people that logged on to the free wifi were people who had enough money to pay for their own.
Internet access should be provided at no cost to the user in libraries, public schools, and at any business that chooses to provide that service. (i.e. McDonald's, Starbucks)
However, the government should not be stepping in and supplying internet widespread over cities and towns. And for the record, the same people that use the free wifi in their homes provided by the city or town, will eventually complain about who is monitoring it. That will start a whole new debate. If you want it, pay for it. If you can't afford it, find a way to afford it or do without it. Wanting something is not enough of an excuse to have something provided to you; regardless of where you live, your religion, race, or social class.