Find free online Italian courses. Several websites such as the Italy World Club (abruzzo2000.com/course/index.html) offer free online lessons. Some websites will require you to register online, but be careful. Many websites seem free, but then begin to charge you for additional resources. Read the registration information carefully, and avoid websites that ask for your credit card.
Listen to free podcasts. Several online audio stores and websites, such as iTunes (apple.com/itunes/), offer free downloadable podcasts. These tend to be arranged in short 10 to 30 minute broadcasts that cover Italian. They are available for all levels, so ensure that you start at the beginner or basic level.
Register for a free online language exchange program such as My Language Exchange Community (mylanguageexchange.com) These websites are typically free and match you with people who want to practice similar languages. You share your native language while learning from your partner. Text chat and voice chat are both available. You will need to connect a USB microphone for voice chat if your computer does not have a built-in microphone.
Visit your local library. Almost every library has a language section, and will undoubtedly have books on basic Italian. Ask the librarian if you have difficulty locating a book for your level. Some language books come with audio components such as tapes or CDs, so it's important to consider whether you want to develop your listening skills or only your reading and writing.
Find a language exchange partner. The best way to develop your speaking skills, is to find someone with whom to talk. Visit your local college and post a message on community boards that you're looking to learn Italian. Many foreign university students want to perfect their English or learn another language, and would be happy to meet with you. If there is an Italian community center in your city or town, this is another great place to post a notice.