Dig Into Your Computer

What Your Desktop Is Really Made Of

Explore what’s inside a desktop computer, from metals and rare earths to plastics and silicon, and discover the global, ethical story behind everyday technology.

Join James in the Tech Hub and discover what your computer is really made of beyond “chips and wires.” In this educational session, we will “dig” through a desktop computer and trace its materials from sand and metals all the way to working circuits.

We will look at major components like the CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, power supply, and motherboard, then connect each piece to the metals, rare earth elements, plastics, and silicon it contains. Along the way, we will talk about where these materials come from around the world and the environmental and ethical issues behind modern electronics.

This program is designed for curious adults and teens who enjoy technology, science, or sustainability. No technical background is required. We will focus on clear, accessible explanations, with time for questions and guided discussion.

You will learn to recognize the main internal parts of a desktop, understand the basic role of each component, and gain a big picture view of how global mining, manufacturing, and e‑waste connect to the device on your desk. Contact James at jwalls@nlrlibrary.org with any questions.

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