The idea of free exchange of information is perhaps one of the greatest assets and opportunities of the Internet. BUT, as said on this BB on more than one occasion, 'someone' has got to prepare all the material, check it, convert/submit it to a website which most people are familiar with/can find/access - all of which performed for free.
While the IOMFHS contributes significantly to the wealth of information availible, if it were not for a few individuals with a passion/interest/willingness and ability to do the likes of the above the information currently availible would be significantly less.

There are perhaps three overall issues - 1. the availability (on IOM) of people to do the above; 2. the demand from and ability of prospective users to access the information using modern computer/internet technology; and 3. the costs associated of 1 to be met 'publicly' or personally.
Not easy issues to resolve no matter who is on a committee and after all, what is being produced already (albeit maybe not sufficient for certian users) is as a result of personal interest and committment with no commercial agenda.

As for the census suggestion, just a thought before anyone goes to the trouble of typing/scanning/coding etc. Please ensure any copyright rules are checked to ensure that it can be reproduced in electronic format and published AND that the Data Protection rules in respective jurisdictions are complied with.

Ian Gerrard