In the US, one can use Libby [1] (and likely other tools) to read books online. I guess it's the same elsewhere in the world. I don't think it will be the end of the world if public libraries put more and more of their books online, and use their physical spaces for other civic functions.

[1] https://libbyapp.com/

It’s my civic duty to expose my daughter to hostile vagrants and vulgar uncontrolled boys harassing her in front of bewildered and powerless staff?

I can’t imagine why these places are closing!