Thanks for your message, Monique.
I completely agree with you. What you’re describing really resonates with me, and I actually took the time to analyze the latest ORDS dataset to see things more clearly.
Looking through the file, there’s a clear trend: Linux-related requests are definitely present, often for something as simple as an installation, and sometimes just to solve a minor issue like a missing file. In other words, there’s genuine public interest in Linux, even among people who are completely new to it. The problem, as you experienced yourself, is that these visitors sometimes end up with fixers who aren’t comfortable with the system.
And that’s a real shame, because it can discourage motivated users who are open to trying something other than Windows or macOS.
There’s clearly a place for Linux in spaces like Repair Cafés. But what’s really needed is better support, awareness, and training, so that volunteers feel more confident when these kinds of requests come up.
We could even imagine creating a small “Linux Starter Kit” for fixers with ready-to-go ISOs, simple step-by-step procedures, or even a help channel between passionate users. If you start something like that, count me in!
That said, I’ll be tied up at least until the end of May with a NATO competition and a two-week deployment. I’ve also got two Repair Cafés scheduled over two weeks, and at the end of May, I’m doing a full weekend of IT support for our seniors (Saturday and Sunday). Shall we keep in touch? Maybe via Discord, Messenger, or something else?