Circular Computer Project in 2025!
The Circular Computer Project is continuing strong; collecting laptops of all ages starting August. Devices will be reformatted and redistributed by our community partners in the Guelph-Wellington Digital Equity Coalition. Laptops that aren’t suitable for redistribution will be recycled through the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA), whose goal is to reduce e-waste by reusing electronics.
- Drop off Donations at the GTL during operating hours
- Data is scrubbed and Hard Drives are reformatted
- Devices are redistributed by community partners
Want to contribute? Simply drop off your device during Guelph Tool Library hours, and our volunteers will have you fill out a short intake form.
Welcome
Welcome to the Circular Computer Project, an initiative aimed at promoting digital equity by refurbishing and redistributing used laptops to those in need. Our program is part of the Digital Equity Coalition and operates on the principles of sustainability, community collaboration, and social impact. Through the combined efforts of the public, local businesses, volunteers, and social assistance organizations, we strive to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals with access to essential technology.
About the Program
The Circular Computer Project accepts laptops from businesses and the public, which are then serviced and tested by our team of volunteers. Each laptop is reformatted to remove all existing data and upgraded with the most recent operating system available. By re-purposing these pre-owned laptops, we extend their lifecycle, reduce electronic waste, and ensure that valuable resources are given a new life.
““Guelph CHC views digital equity as a social determinant of health and believes it’s necessary to be fully engaged in today’s society. Many of our clients don’t have access to digital devices. The partnership with the Circular Computer Program helps us reduce barriers to digital connection and meet this community need.
We have a program at Guelph CHC called Social Prescribing, which involves connecting clients with non-medical supports for their health and well-being. Our partnership with the Circular Computer Program allows our healthcare team to give clients a Social Prescription for digital devices like refurbished chromebooks or laptops. Clients are then able to connect with online resources that help them apply for jobs, meet educational goals, stay in touch with loved ones, access food security programs, participate in online social and skill building programs, etc. This is only possible because of the generosity of the folks from the Circular Computer Program. Our clients and staff are so grateful for their support!”” – Karrie Cumming, Guelph Community Health Centre
Donations
The Guelph Tool Library is accepting laptop donations! Help us find a new home for your old laptop by dropping it off at the Tool Library during business hours. To save time, consider filling out the (short) intake form before dropping by.
Distribution Partners
Our laptops are distributed through our community partners including the Guelph Community Health Centre, Women in Crisis Shelter, and the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington. Together, we are working towards creating a more inclusive and digitally connected community.
About the Laptops We Collect
The Circular Computer Project accepts older laptops that are in good overall condition. We believe in providing quality technology to our recipients, ensuring that the devices we distribute meet their needs effectively. We are constantly evaluating our acceptance criteria to align with our mission and make a positive impact in the community.
Donations and Partnership
We are actively seeking partnerships with businesses interested in contributing to our cause. Please contact us at info@guelphtoollibrary.org to find out more.
Join us in the Circular Computer Project, where laptops find a new purpose, communities thrive, and digital equity becomes a reality. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Partners
Contact Us
For further information or inquiries regarding the Circular Computer Project, please feel free to reach out to us at info@guelphtoollibrary.org. We appreciate your interest and support in our mission.