28
Dec
I don't often donate to something.
Money is tight, after all.
However… I tripped onto Wikipedia today — as I do so often — to look something up.
There was a banner up top, and I clicked on it after I read up on what I needed to read up on.
I read the message there, and I was struck by how genuine it sounded. And then I thought "What if Wikipedia weren't here? What if it weren't free? What if every page were littered with ads?"
The first… I don't even want to consider it. Life without it would be a step backwards.
The second… I'd probably pay for access, but what about all the people who can't afford it? What about all the people who contributed to the wealth of knowledge on there? Wouldn't they feel cheated? Wouldn't they want to be paid to contribute, if Wikipedia charged people for access? Ergo… I hate that idea, because it would wreck Wikipedia.
The third… I'm very pleased to see at least one place on the web where I can be sure not to be hit in the face with some flash ad for whatever product might fit in with the subject search.
If you use Wikipedia, then consider making a donation. If you can't afford much, then give what you can. Let's keep it free for everyone. Let's keep the knowledge available to everyone.
I am proud to have helped a little bit. The button was added to the side, in an effort to promote their effort.
Please.
Anya Bast is currently running a heck of a contest.
To enter, click below.
So…. that sparked the question… what DO I want to read?
Oh.. gosh. 
I'll list them later!