The Continuing Relevance of DVDs and Blu-ray Discs to Library Collections

Abstract

This paper examines the ongoing relevance of DVD and Blu-ray Disc collections to libraries at a time
of dominance by streaming video. Using the 2020 HBO Max removal of Gone with the Wind as
a catalyst for discussion, the study explores the shift from physical to digital media consumption and
argues that optical disc collections remain essential to library services. While streaming services such as
Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney1 have transformed film distribution, they present significant
limitations, including restricted catalogs, algorithm-driven curation, licensing vulnerabilities, and
commercial prioritization over cultural preservation