Cash-strapped states and the rapid advancement of e-books could spell the end to the public library over the next 10 years, turning the community institutions into kiosks at the local mall.

“A public library earns a measly couple of bucks on a long overdue book, an intra-day loan, sales of very outdated books, and from parties that hold instructional classes like defensive driving,” said Brian Sozzi, a retail analyst for Wall Street Strategies Inc. for six years. “On the liability side of the balance sheet, a public library shells out funds for the salaries of librarians and other staff, utilities, books, and various equipment.”