I see that James has posted a blog entry about third spaces. I read a book on that subject around 20 years ago. I think that infoshops are a good example of third places and they are becoming an alternative to public libraries. I've been involved in two infoshops, the most recent one being the Crossroads Infoshop and Radical Bookstore here in Kansas City. It opened last month and we are doing well. Much of my time this week has been spent on putting out organizational fires. Right now I'm supposed to be finding people to staff the space this week, so I'd better stop writing here...