Slow Circuits Library
A library of refurbished technology where community members can rent laptops, tablets, projectors, and speakers—for free.
Circular Technology, Built for the Bronx
The Slow Circuits Library is a library of refurbished technology where community members can rent laptops, tablets, projectors, and speakers for free.
The library was developed by Slow Circuits, a circular technology collective that aims to reduce electronic waste while supporting digital access. We do this by raising awareness that technology consumption is an environmental justice issue, and by creating circular models for technology reuse through our libraries and workshops.
Community members can rent, refurbish, and recycle technology devices in their neighbourhood.
Why It Matters
Consuming technology within today's linear tech economy takes a heavy toll on our ecosystems—from the extraction of rare minerals to e-waste leaching toxic waste into the environment. The social and ecological costs often go unseen by those who rely on technology every day, while those externalities are exported to communities least responsible for generating them.
Borrow What You Need
Every device in our library has been donated, refurbished, and restored to working order—ready to support your work, learning, or next event.
Laptops
Refurbished laptops for work, school, job searches, and personal use.
Tablets
Portable tablets great for reading, classes, and staying connected.
Projectors
Rent a projector for community events, meetings, and screenings.
Speakers
Portable speakers for gatherings, presentations, and workshops.
E-Waste Meets the Digital Divide
An abundance of waste stands in stark contrast to enduring gaps in digital access—especially here in the Bronx.
tonnes of e-waste produced globally in 2022
tonnes of e-waste generated in NY annually
of e-waste is formally collected and recycled
of Americans hoard e-waste in their homes
The Bronx Digital Divide
In the Bronx, households without broadband access approach 30% and households without a laptop reach up to 40%. The Bronx—where our library was first established—is a borough acutely affected by the digital divide. By raising awareness of technology consumption as an environmental justice issue, our goal is to interrupt that cycle locally, keeping well-functioning devices out of the landfill and back in residents' hands.
A Local Model That Works
Since we opened, the library has grown thanks to donations from community members.
Devices diverted from the landfill
CO₂e emissions saved
In cost savings for residents
We've seen the library grow in size, thanks to donations from community members. A local school has rented laptops and tablets from the library to support their digital literacy program, and individual community members have rented laptops for personal use. This is a local model for circular technology that we've shown is possible.
Rent, Refurbish, Recycle
Three simple steps keep technology circulating in our community.
Rent
Borrow a device for free when you need it—no cost, no catch.
Refurbish
Donated devices are repaired and restored by our community.
Recycle
When a device reaches end-of-life, it's responsibly recycled.
Need a Device? Borrow One Free.
Whether you're a student, a family, a school, or a neighbor—there's a device waiting for you in the Slow Circuits Library.