Why Amazon Still Can’t Replace Libraries

The earliest known library dates back to the 7th century BC, with the Library of Ashurbanipal in Mosul, Iraq. Today’s libraries continue that long tradition of sharing literature, even if the formats have changed since the days of cuneiform tablets. Still, some people wonder whether modern services like Amazon offer enough to replace libraries.

The Everlasting Impact of Libraries

As technology changes and new services emerge, the question lingers: Do libraries still have a role in our lives today? In 2018, a Forbes contributor suggested that Amazon stores could replace libraries, sparking widespread debate and leading to the article’s eventual deletion. Several years have passed, but the discussion still resurfaces from time to time.

In truth, the answer is obvious. Libraries will always have a purpose, one that Amazon can never replace. While some people may assume libraries are outdated, that perception doesn’t reflect the reality of modern library work. Librarians adapt constantly to meet evolving community needs, and resources like books will remain an essential part of thriving communities.

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Cost

For people experiencing financial insecurity, libraries can be a vital resource. But the cost-saving benefits of libraries extend to all patrons. When comparing Amazon to libraries, cost becomes a factor immediately. Amazon offers members a range of services, but most come with annual fees or additional subscriptions. Features like Audible Premium Plus, Kindle Unlimited, Prime Video Ultra, and Amazon Music Unlimited also require separate monthly payments.

With a library card, patrons can access many of the same types of materials at no additional cost. Libraries offer physical books, ebooks, audiobooks, and ad-free streaming services through platforms like Libby and Hoopla.

The average US household pays about $90 per year for library services, which includes access to a wide range of media. By comparison, Amazon’s media services require separate subscriptions: Kindle Unlimited costs about $144 per year, Amazon Music Unlimited ranges from roughly $132 to $180 per year, Audible Premium Plus costs about $179 per year, and ad-free Prime Video Ultra costs about $168 per year when purchased as a standalone service. 

For many households, a single library card replaces multiple paid subscriptions, making the library one of the most affordable ways to access books and media.

Access to Materials

Amazon can only provide the items it has available for purchase, but libraries offer far broader access through interlibrary loan (ILL). If a local branch doesn’t own a particular book or resource, patrons can request it from another library in the network at no additional cost. In general, buying books on Amazon often requires users to make a purchase, which isn’t always feasible. For many readers, ILL ensures they can explore a much wider range of books and media than they could reasonably purchase on their own.

Services

Amazon’s primary role is retail, while libraries function as community centers and third spaces where people can learn, connect, and access support. Beyond borrowing books, libraries offer classes, technology help, meeting rooms, research assistance, and programs for all ages. These services are designed to meet community needs, not to sell products.

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Digital Access

Accessing Amazon’s digital services requires reliable internet, a personal device, and the ability to navigate online platforms—resources that not everyone has at home. Libraries help bridge this gap by offering free wifi, public computers, printing, and technology support, ensuring that community members can get online, use essential tools, and participate fully in the digital world without additional costs. 

Privacy

Because Amazon’s services are built around digital transactions, the company collects extensive data on your purchases and browsing activity. This information is used to personalize recommendations and support its retail business.

Public libraries take the opposite approach: They safeguard patron privacy as a core professional value. While libraries may collect limited information to issue a card or provide services, that data is kept confidential, never sold, and protected by policies designed to uphold intellectual freedom.

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Community Value

While Amazon connects people to products, it doesn’t create community. Public libraries do. Libraries offer welcoming spaces, programs, and services that bring people from all walks of life together. They strengthen neighborhoods and support civic life. Technology may change and evolve, but libraries will forever be safe, inclusive spaces where everyone belongs. This community role is something a retail platform simply cannot replicate.

Libraries Remain Irreplaceable

Amazon offers convenience, but it will never replace public libraries. When there are endless resources, tools, and community spaces that are completely free for anyone to use, there’s simply no competition. Support libraries by popping into your local branch for a visit, donating to help libraries throughout the US, or simply saying thank you to a librarian.

Visit www.everylibrary.org to learn more about our work on behalf of libraries. 

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This work by EveryLibrary is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0