Amid rising subscription costs for streaming services and a growing number of platforms, public libraries are emerging as significant sources for physical media. Some libraries are adopting nostalgic branding reminiscent of Blockbuster to attract visitors. John Scalzo, an audiovisual collection librarian in western New York, notes a resurgence in interest for physical media, despite a decline in circulation observed in 2019. He attributes this shift to consumer awareness regarding the high costs of streaming services, which often provide limited access to content.

Kris Langlais, audiovisual selector at the Free Library of Philadelphia, has expanded the library's video game collection in response to similar demand. Patrons drawn in by video games are also engaging with other library offerings. Langlais emphasizes the importance of maintaining a diverse collection, including older games that are increasingly difficult to find due to being out of print.

Tiffany Hudson, an audiovisual materials selector with Salt Lake City Public Library, faces challenges in acquiring physical copies of popular films and shows that are exclusive to certain streaming platforms. She highlights the frustration patrons experience when they cannot access certain titles, especially when they are available for purchase on platforms like Amazon. The trend of limited physical releases is becoming more common, with notable delays for films like the Oscar-winning "CODA," which only received a physical release years after its initial streaming debut.

The consolidation of streaming services can lead to the removal of content, as seen in the 2022 merger of HBO Max and Discovery+, which resulted in the removal of numerous shows, including classic episodes of "Sesame Street." Such actions raise concerns about the stability and availability of media, particularly as companies prioritize financial viability over cultural preservation.

The recommendation algorithms used by streaming platforms often favor newer content, making it difficult for older, less commercially viable films to be discovered. This trend can obscure the historical significance of classic media, which libraries strive to preserve. Librarians express urgency in acquiring titles that may be at risk of disappearing from public access, particularly those that represent marginalized communities, such as the film "The People’s Joker," which faced censorship challenges.

While physical media is not immune to deterioration, it currently offers an alternative to the profit-driven model of streaming services. The growing interest in library collections reflects a desire for equitable access to diverse media, countering the trend of corporate control over cultural resources. Public libraries are positioned to provide a broader array of content than traditional rental services, with the added benefit of no late fees.