The library can buy the stuff used and the publishers make nothing off of such sales.
I buy nearly all my books used.
I buy nearly all my books used.
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.
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.