Mac Mini will not boot OS, can I get to files with another Mac?

My mac mini will not boot the OS proserly, it goes to a screen that tells me that some root folder can not be found.
The install CD works and I can boot to it. The disk utility reports no problems, all disk repairs done and OK.
The computer still will not boot to the OS.
How can I get the files I need off the drive before I reinstall the OS?
I have other Macs and fire wire cables, cross over cables, regular eithernet cables. What can I do?
Thanks!

How can I get the files I need off the drive before I reinstall the OS?
Connect it to another Mac with a FireWire cable and start it up with the T key held down.
(40535)

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