I don't have much luck with recommendations; I've assumed it's because the books I request are not conventionally popular. I do understand that, but it's frustrating when I have to wade through a welter of newly added romance and mystery titles to find the odd history offering if I'm lucky. I think the algorithm may place too much emphasis on circulation and not enough on meeting all needs.

LOL. My personal English e-book library is probably larger than what my local library can provide in English. Adding books to that library is actually cheaper than getting a library subscription.

Prices are €25, €42, or €50 for the subscription (depending on how much you want to borrow), and €0.15 per book per week. And the library's only open a few days, 2-3 hours a day, at times I'm mostly unable to go. (Such as 14:00-17:00; some people are working here, you know.)

Nah. When getting a good Kobo coupon, I can get 20 books for €50. When buying Delphi Classics, I can get even more.

Have you tried emailing the library after you make your request? I've done that and it works more times than not.