Ideas - Internet in launderettes

I had this idea a while back, and a friend visited Australia and apparently they're all ready doing it over there:

Put internet access terminals in launderettes.

Many people use laundrettes because they can't afford their own washing machine, although then there are also people who use them because they don't have space or want their own machine. The primary group are also the least likely to be able to afford to have internet access at home, so it is likely that when given the opportunity for access, that they will use it.

It would be handy if there was some way of controlling the connect via coin-operation, just like the washing machines. Launderettes all ready have change machines, or people turn up with change, so having coin-operation would fit in with the way launderettes are used to working. They're also used to buying a machine as a large investment, then having small payments pay it back before hitting profit, so adding a computer or two would be an understandable way of adding facilities, if the owners can be convinced it's a good idea.

One of the problems I can see with this is that the computers that provide access will have to be made secure. Many of the launderettes I've visited are unattended for various hours during the day. Either the computers will need to be in something secure that can be locked when the staff go home, or they will have to be in some housing that allows them to be used all the time, but stops people who might want to steal any parts.

Paul Silver, 31 August 2003