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Prior to e-readers I borrowed lots of printed books from the library, all the time.
Stuff that was not there, I put on hold. I know that our culture isn't THAT afraid of "waiting", I get sick of the articles that imply that waiting for a hold is the worst. thing. ever. that can possibly befall some poor tortured soul. I wait weeks for a book, paper or ebook. When it comes, I read it.
Each user has a limit to how many e-books can be checked out at one time. We can set our default loan period for a week to three weeks. I have mine set to two weeks, but amend as needed. Some fast reads really only need a week, but huge books I need all 3, and I know how to return early in any event.
I don't consider myself a freeloader. The public library is just that, public. Anyone who has proof of address can get a card and use it. Also as a taxpaying citizen, and as someone who has from time to time acquired fines for late returns, I support our library equally with everyone else. I hold this institution in the highest honor and respect and always have. Our children likewise, have grown up with this attitude. They take great care of borrowed items, and love the books and cds and videos they can use.
Our newer libraries are less old-fashioned library like where hushed tones are king, and more like a community center where there are themes, lectures, open learning, and all kinds of cool things going on. Sometimes a band or a dance will be on for a culture week. The one near us has a huge huge area with toys and play area where kids can play and the parents can sit around in comfortable chairs watching their children. When our kids were younger this was great.
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