Not all spending is equal. And, clearly, as we change consumer spending we must consider the widespread influence of consumer spending on businesses and people. Durning distinguishes spending by how many units of physical resources are consumed and how many services people receive, as well as the number of dollars spent. It is the access to those things that need to be distributed more equitably. Broadening the idea of libraries is one way to envision solutions to overconsumption, says Durning.
Libraries are the ultimate democratic institutions.
You have free access to them, and they save a forest full of trees for all of the copies of books and magazines. Two years ago, in Ithaca, New York, community economist Paul Glover saw a city struggling with unemployment and low hourly wages. He also saw a society he considered too materialistic, divided, and shopping in ways bad for the environment. Instead of simply blaming money itself for the problems, he reinvented it. The proceeds from sales would stay in Ithaca and boost the economy.