These laptops make AWESOME Linux/Ubuntu/Mint units! The disks are free online. A great site to check is http://distrowatch.com.
Back in the day with this laptop (around 2001) they were dependable with Windows XP but do REALLY, REALLY well with Linux. Just add a wifi card, Linux will see it, and you're ready to roll! Top that off that 99% of all Linux software is free and comparable to....if not better than....their 'windows' counterparts, and this would make a 'older' laptop FLY!
Just thought I'd add my two cents' worth because I load these for friends all the time and Linux REALLY likes Dell systems for some crazy reason I have yet to figure out....