The popularity of Internet-enabled computers at the public libraries highlights one of the most welcome successes of the state system. The Web has become an essential source of information in recent years, but one that otherwise may be unaffordable for many in lower-income groups. The state library network here has fulfilled an important part of its duty: providing free access to information to as many people as possible.

Unfortunately, that duty has come with unanticipated costs, according to library officials. Some of them — the Internet service subscription, for example — are unavoidable, and simply should be absorbed in the system's budget.

Other expenses really should be passed on to the user. There is no reason the libraries should bear the cost of printing, so a user fee would be in order here. Libraries charge patrons to use photocopying machines, and computer printouts should be no different.

Additionally it's a smart idea to automate the booking of the computers so that librarians don't waste valuable staff time policing the terminals for patrons overstaying their session. If a remote booking system is devised, however, it should be one that is phone-activated, not unlike the interfaces clinics often employ for enabling appointments or prescription refills. Many people come to the library because they don't have Web access at home, so an Internet-dependent system would not work.

Lei Ahu Isa, a member of a school board panel investigating the issue, suggests converting the service into a revenue-producing Internet cafe.

However, as tempting as it may be to raise funds for the library this way, it's a counterproductive idea. There are numerous Internet cafes the public can use for a fee. The library's function, instead, is to foster reading. The way to do this is to keep the printed word, whether in books or on a screen, accessible and free of charge.