The Resurgence of Physical Media: Public Libraries as Modern Rental Stores

As streaming subscription prices rise and the availability of films and television shows becomes increasingly fragmented across platforms, public libraries are experiencing a resurgence as the last bastions of physical media. Libraries are leveraging nostalgic branding, such as that of Blockbuster, to attract patrons who fondly remember the days of renting movies. John Scalzo, an audiovisual collection librarian in western New York, notes a renewed interest in physical media, stating, “People really seem to want physical media.” This trend is echoed by Kris Langlais, audiovisual selector at the Free Library of Philadelphia, who has expanded the library's video game collection in response to growing patron interest.

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The challenges of obtaining physical copies of media are significant. Tiffany Hudson, audiovisual materials selector at the Salt Lake City Public Library, highlights the difficulties in sourcing out-of-print films and the frustration patrons feel when they request titles that are exclusive to certain streaming platforms. Hudson explains that many films do not receive physical releases anymore, and when they do, it can take years. For instance, the Apple+ film "CODA," which won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2022, only saw a U.S. physical release months later. Hudson emphasizes that the trend of films receiving physical releases is becoming increasingly rare.

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The volatility of streaming platforms further complicates access to media. Mergers, such as the 2022 HBO Max-Discovery+ merger, resulted in the removal of significant content, including classic episodes of "Sesame Street." Hudson points out that streaming services often prioritize newer content, leading to the neglect of older films that are less commercially viable. This trend not only affects availability but also shapes public perception of what media is considered important.

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Libraries are stepping in to fill the gaps left by the streaming industry. Scalzo maintains a list of films that are unavailable commercially, ensuring that when donations come in, he can preserve these titles for future access. Langlais shares a similar sentiment, noting the importance of acquiring films that may vanish from circulation. He emphasizes the cultural significance of preserving older films, stating, “I just thought that it could vanish.”

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While the revival of physical media in libraries caters to nostalgia, it also raises questions about cultural stagnation. Critics argue that nostalgia can lead to a conservative view of history, potentially rewriting narratives that are uncomfortable. Nonetheless, the availability of physical media in libraries provides an alternative to the profit-driven model of streaming services, allowing patrons to explore a broader range of cultural content without the burden of late fees.

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• “People really seem to want physical media,” — John Scalzo, Audiovisual Collection Librarian

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• “It’s frustrating because I understand the streaming services, they’re trying to drive people to their services and they want some money for that, but there are still a lot of people that just can’t afford all of those services,” — Tiffany Hudson, Audiovisual Materials Selector

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• “I just thought that it could vanish,” — Kris Langlais, Audiovisual Selector

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In summary, as the landscape of media consumption evolves, public libraries are reclaiming their role as vital resources for accessing physical media, addressing both nostalgia and the challenges posed by the streaming industry.

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