I believe even “one book one rental” was kind of a gray area. Publishers probably didn’t sue at the time as the potential ruling was less certain, and they didn’t want a precedent not in their favour.

Alright but Spotify is one of the very few subscriptions that are actually easier than pirating. As long as you have a family plan, it is great value for money.

I don’t know of a good way to support artists outside of direct transactions.