I think an annual fee would be counter-productive. Many of our members just surfed in here to start with, found it was a great place and stayed around. If you had to pay before joining in, our number would dwindle and not be replaced so easily.
However, Tony's idea about voluntary payment is a great one. It could be a "suggested" fee, for those that can afford it. I know some are already paying high prices for internet access, some are very young, and some are on fixed income.
I would certainly kick in. This is like family.
DonM