There was even a time when Music Zone (store in the UK) would let you return cds. Well it was free reign to buy them, copy them and then return the original.
I recall having a printer that could print the album art on them.
Or even recording from the radio on to tape or mini disc. And even Smash Hits for lyrics.
You’re right, relationships with music were different than they are now.
I can’t lie though some things are better now. Take Apple Classical for instance. I can listen to the music entire collection of classical music by opening an app. It’s amazing.