[ipaddr]

They are lending with limitations like a library.

If the nation was founded today people would never build a single library and they would be deeded evil.

Requiring libraries to buy books is an evil practice. As a function of copyright you should have to donate a book for every 10 numbers sold. Libraries create readers who are necessary for writers/publishers.

[stubish]

If they want to change the laws, they could be agitating for a system such as Australia where authors get paid when their books are checked out from libraries. For many Australian authors, it is where the majority of their writing income comes from. Note that it is authors and not publishers receiving this money from the Australian Government. It wouldn't even cost that much, given how little people actually read on average.