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This is a poorly informed assessment. Nearly every single library system is subject to “take it or leave it” pricing and terms by publishers. The libraries need the publishers to purchase materials from, the publisher likely wishes the library was gone so they can think they are selling more product now.

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The library can buy the stuff used and the publishers make nothing off of such sales.

I buy nearly all my books used.

Libraries cannot buy used because they need the asset prepared for circulation. This includes a protective cover, barcoding, etc. They usually have a vendor do this preparation, and the assets (books, usually) are often not the same as what you would find in a store, they can be different sizes to fit in Automatic Materials Handling Systems, have more robust binding, etc.

> Libraries cannot buy used because

They certainly can. They choose not to. When you decide to demand a special binding and special print run, and when you will pay any price, you're going to pay a lot more.

The books are often the same as what you would find in a store.

It's possible to put a protective cover on a used book.

The books at my local library come in many different sizes, including the size of a paperback novel.

My local library, too. It's also clear they handle the books by hand. There's no automated system.

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