Q: Best way to recycle a 2004 Apple laptop (iBook)

If you still have the software install restore DVDs, and it can start, you should

use the Installer's version of Disk Utility, to erase the system. You can have a

part of the that Disk Utility overwrite [or "zero" the hard drive] so your old info

may be unavailable, before installing a new system from original DVD media.

The process to install a new system can be a bit of time, but if the Mac does

work, it means someone can see a value in it; even if only to check email or

write a few letters (that may or may not require postage stamp & printer.)

You can exit the Installer and force-quit the computer before it begins to ask

for personal information. Then it would be ready for a new owner to set it up.

https://www.google.com/search?q=iBook+G4+how+to+reinstall+OS+from+DVD

In this state, if given away or donated to a charity organisation with thrift stores

they usually have no trouble accepting them. Include the original DVD media.

And hope the accessories will stay with the donation until if finds a new owner.

(From experience, having repaired/donated 100s of Macs, with accessories:

Items get put into bins and sold separately at charity thrift stores; so later on,

Mac may be sitting there, unsold. Missing? Power cord, mouse, display; etc.)

The unit may also see some interest if offered inexpensively on craigslist, etc.

A non-working Mac may also be erased, if you know how. Some can boot up

& work good enough to erase the drive in Target Disk Mode; from another Mac.

An iFixit or other online repair guide can be used to disassemble the computer

and take the hard drive out, if the unit cannot be otherwise erased; if content

on the drive may be something you don't want in an electronics recycle bin.

An Apple User Group in your area may know of someone who wants old Macs.

Or a used computer store with a collection of failed Macs may take it for free.

A search online for your area or regional electronics recycler should show results.

You may be expected to pay to be shed of it, however. Giving away an old Mac

has usually never been a big trouble, in an urban area. It can be difficult if you

happen to live in an underpopulated area & have a few hundred restored Macs.

I've been there... had a room full and set up tables in a community hall down the

road; asking for donations to the tiny local library, any amount given would mean

the person could get a repaired/restored Mac with software. Few takers.

So you never know.

In any event...

Good luck in your efforts !