Re:Lets burn our public libraries (Score 1)

Books from the library are read there, or borrowed to be returned later. The number of copies in existence remains the same (unless people go to a copy machine to copy the book - a non-trivial and fairly costly operation, probably more costly than going to the book shop and buy yourself a copy).

Many library patrons prefer to photocopy a page or two from a magazine rather than borrow it from the library or buy a copy at the bookstore. Photocopying instructions for knitting a particular sweater will only cost a few cents but saves a trip to the library to return the magazine and you can write notes on your copy if you need to make any changes.