I put together a map of the places around Olympia, and Thurston County generally where you can get a free wireless connection (its a newer map, see comment below).

I tried to post it directly to Olyblog, but it didn't come over well (well, that can happen now, see comment). I added all of the wifi hotspots I know about (through Zhonka, the libraries and what there was listed at jwire), but I know I don't know them all. For now, only I can add locations, but I'd like to find a google maps hack site that can let anyone add locations (done). If you know of another location that isn't listed, just comment on this post, and I'll add them (don't bother now, go here).

For those of us who would like to either see one of our local governments build a WiFi network or encourage a private company to do the same, I was reminded last night that the existing connections in town could serve as an ad-hoc wireless network. From  Municipal Wireless: A Primer for Public Discussion:

Some cities have created programs to recruit businesses and community organizations to install their own hotspots, thereby creating an ad-hoc network of sorts. These are generally called WiFi networks or sometimes community wireless networks. Each node is privately owned by the sponsoring business or community organization, and each node has its own ...connection. ...The municipality only has to promote the network to the public, and recruit and assists sponsors with technical assistance and software support. Sponsors advertise “free

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