New Devon Library Scheme Lets Residents Recycle Old Tech and Tackle Digital Poverty
By Community Correspondent
Residents in Exeter and across Devon are being encouraged to donate old and unwanted tech items such as mobile phones, laptops and tablets as part of a new recycling initiative being rolled out through local libraries.
The scheme will see donated devices refurbished and redistributed to people experiencing digital poverty, helping to bridge the gap for those without access to essential technology.
One of five new electronic donation points is being introduced at Exeter Library, with the official launch taking place on Wednesday 22 April.
Members of the public are being invited to drop off items between 11am and 1pm.
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The programme is being delivered by Libraries Unlimited in partnership with Fixy, Resource Futures and Donate IT, with support from Exeter City Council, which helps fund Exeter Library through Libraries Unlimited.
As part of Libraries Unlimited’s National Lottery-funded “Together For Tomorrow” climate action project, the initiative aims to cut electronic waste while also tackling inequality in digital access across communities.
Environmental campaigners warn that the issue is significant, with more than 100,000 tonnes of electrical waste discarded each year in the UK, according to Material Focus. Many discarded electronics also pose environmental and safety risks if not disposed of properly.
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Organisers say improperly binned electronics are a growing fire risk in household and recycling waste streams, prompting renewed efforts to encourage responsible disposal and reuse of old devices.
Further Fixy donation points will open across Devon over spring and summer, including in Cullompton, Totnes, Tiverton and Barnstaple.
Linda Hull, project coordinator at Resource Futures, said:
“Fixy is delighted to be working with several library trials in Devon. Closing the digital divide and tackling the ever-increasing e-waste mountain has never been more important. We know that most people have a ‘Drawer of Doom’ stashed with pre-loved smart tech.
“Not only do we need to liberate all these hoarded precious metals, but once all these devices are securely data wiped, many can be refurbished and given back out free of charge to those in digital need in our communities. It’s win win!”
Alex Kittow said:
“It’s wonderful to see the Fixy boxes launch in our libraries. Libraries play such a crucial role in supporting the wellbeing of individuals and communities; they are spaces that evolve to meet their community’s needs, constantly promoting inclusion and aiming to reduce inequalities.
“Libraries are uniquely positioned to share knowledge and promote projects like Fixy, donating old tech to be refurbished for those who need it. It’s a great opportunity for people to have a clear out of their old tech and help the environment.”
Items accepted at Fixy donation points include:
- Mobile phones and smartphones
- Laptops (must be unlocked)
- Tablets (must be unlocked)
- Desktop PCs and towers
- PC combo units
- Digital cameras
- Routers
- Games consoles, controllers and accessories
- Hard drives and external drives
- Freeview recorders
- Smart speakers and wearable tech
- Smart devices and accessories
Items not accepted include:
- TVs, monitors and screens
- Keyboards and mice
- Telephones
- Printers, scanners and photocopiers
- CDs, DVDs, tapes and discs
- Non-tech small electrical items
- Loose batteries
