Got devices you don’t need? Southwest Library is collecting them

August 5, 2024 2:13 pm

| 12 COMMENTS

| Environment | West Seattle libraries | West Seattle news

If you have computers, phones, or other electronics you no longer need – even if they’re not working – Southwest Library is collecting them for e-cycling!

They’ve partnered with InterConnection this summer. Here’s the library announcement:

From now until September 30, the Southwest Library is accepting a wide variety of used technology on behalf of InterConnection – items do NOT need to be in working condition! When you donate your laptops, phones, tablets, speakers, video game consoles, cables, modems/routers, and other devices, InterConnection will:

completely wipe all existing data on the devices
refurbish them into good working order
help to bridge the digital divide by making the devices available to low-income communities

Here’s the list of everything InterConnection accepts.The library is at 9010 35th SW; it’s open every day but Saturday, and hours are listed here.

Southwest Librarian August 5, 2024 (5:05 pm)

Thank you so much for posting! More devices than I even know the purpose/function of can be accepted, so feel free to come by with your devices :)

Bob August 5, 2024 (8:27 pm)

How can I be assured that InterConnecton wipes everything clean from the hard drive?
- anonyme August 6, 2024 (5:51 am)
  
  Bob, I have the same question. I have several laptops I would have donated years ago if not for this concern.
- Elton August 6, 2024 (9:46 am)
  
  If you have anything valuable on an electronic device, I would definitely always wipe it yourself before donating/selling and never assume the recipient will.
- momof3boys August 6, 2024 (10:04 am)
  
  if you want to be sure, you can use a service that will take out your hard drive and return it to you for destruction. Or, you can do that yourself, if you google it. It’s not difficult to remove, before you drop off the rest of the unit. Here’s a local option. Formerly Quidnunc.
- Southwest Librarian August 6, 2024 (10:06 am)
  
  Great question, Bob. InterConnection is a long-time, trusted Seattle organization that has been doing this particular aspect of their work for 20 years. Right now, they are only able to offer certification of data destruction for scheduled business donations, but InterConnection has hosted device donation drives at numerous SPL locations — we’ve been made aware of no data issues from the many patrons who have donated their old tech. Let me know if you’d like to be put in touch with the Partnerships & Program Manager at InterConnection to discuss your concerns.

Kt August 6, 2024 (4:10 am)

Thanks for this info…I have eight desktop computers from our office that need a home!

Lisa August 6, 2024 (7:16 am)

This is very cool and I’d like to participate, but I, too, am worried about my hard drive.

Southwest Librarian August 6, 2024 (10:11 am)

Hi Lisa! Thanks for considering a donation. InterConnection is a long-time, trusted Seattle organization that has been doing this particular aspect of their work for 20 years. Right now, they are only able to offer certification of data destruction for scheduled business donations, but InterConnection has hosted device donation drives at numerous SPL locations — we’ve been made aware of no data issues from the many patrons who have donated their old tech. If you’d like to chat with the Partnerships & Program Manager at InterConnection, I’d be happy to put y’all in touch!