I may be talking myself out of a job here, but then I always did like to live dangerously.

Computers are complex and a long way from becoming appliances. Everyone who uses a computer needs some help from time to time, including the so-called experts.

The problem is to find help from a source one trusts, at a reasonable cost. This keeps me and thousands of others very busy helping folks, both via columns such as this and paid consulting services.

But the answers to most computer problems are freely available if one knows where to look, is willing to invest a modicum of effort in understanding the answers and patiently following instructions.

Chicagoans are very lucky in this regard. There's a local organization devoted to helping PC users: the Chicago Computer Society (CCS). I've been a member for about 10 years.

CCS is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to providing information, education and free computer help to its members. Their slogan says it all: users helping users.

With about eight chapters in and around Chicago, CCS holds a variety of monthly meetings and special events, all of which are focused on helping you help yourself to greater understanding and productivity in using your PC.

Every chapter meeting opens with "Open Forum," where anyone can ask any question about any computer hardware or software problem. Someone in attendance usually has the answer or can point you to a place to find it.

There are also several special interest groups (SIGs) within CCS, which are dedicated to addressing the specific complexities of particular programs or technologies.

Not the least benefit of membership is CCS's monthly journal, Hard-Copy, which features useful and informative articles by members (including me). Perhaps the best benefit of membership is access to a corps of volunteer PC helpers who are ready to answer your questions.

A list of these generous souls is included in each issue of Hard-Copy, along with their telephone and e-mail contacts and the times they are available.

Suppose, for example, you use Quicken to organize your finances. If you are stuck with a particular activity that doesn't activate, or for which the help file is not helpful, you can e-mail (or call, if necessary) Burton Goode, Walter Schulze, Phil Warren, Al Wilkus or William Ziegler.

Internet questions? CCS members can turn to John Glavey any evening between 6-10:00 p.m., or Rob Pionke during the business day.

Keep in mind that, though many of them are professional computer folks or at least very experienced users, they are unpaid volunteers. So don't take undue advantage of their generosity.

Most monthly meetings feature presentations by software or hardware vendors or members, and often offer useful door prizes. (I once won a $700 database program, though most prizes are simpler.)

CCS offers training courses at very low cost for members, as well as occasional discounts on products and services from various vendors. For example, Internet access is available for $80 per year.

Membership cost is absurdly low: $40 per year covers you and your immediate family. Don't imagine that CCS is only for whiz kids. Those 65 or older (and there are many members in that category) pay only $30.

Print a membership application from www.ccs.org. CCS's website is still evolving. Like all CCS activities, member participation is welcome. No Internet access? Request an application by leaving a message at 708 588-0385.

I'm really not worried that my job is threatened by the prospect of all my readers joining CCS. Based on my experience, only a few of you will take my advice anyway.

Prove me wrong.

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