You have the internet as a source of information, and it is always more current. You have Amazon to buy books at a discount, especially if they are used. And our kids have libraries specifically targeted to their ages and needs. Why do we need to expand libraries except to make old people feel good about where they donate their money?
Every one of these points can be refuted I'm sure with a differing opinion, but they certainly provide some level of merit when costs and this economy are squeezing from all angles.