It's plausible this is actually a good outcome for the library in many cases: They can buy a new book at the loss of a worn one. Depending on the popularity of

It's plausible this is actually a good outcome for the library in many cases: They can buy a new book at the loss of a worn one. Depending on the popularity of the book, they might rather spend it on another book anyways. Modern libraries would need to include the prep cost in the acquisition cost though, which puts it above retail. Libraries often pay to have new books pre-catalogued, barcoded, and covered.