i haven't done the math, but queuing theory will suggest that 1 big central library would handle ebook queues/wait lists better than lots of smaller ones?
and would have much more buying power to counter some of the anti-library moves coming from publishers
as for city vs rural, isn't e-lending all about the" death of distance "
or is this theory outdated?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Death-Dista.../dp/158799089X