Whilst many help channels utilize specialized staff to answer questions, one of the most refreshing things about #freenode is that anyone who knows the answer to a question can, and often does, provide the answer or help to the user in need - regardless of status or staff-ness. Numerous users lurk in the channel, either to learn from others' questions, help other users through their queries or generally just to take up space :)
Whilst many help channels utilize specialized staff to answer questions, one of the most refreshing things about #freenode is that anyone who knows the answer to a question can, and often does, provide the answer or help to the user in need - regardless of status or staff-ness. Numerous users lurk in the channel, either to learn from others' questions, help other users through their queries or generally just to take up space :)