Historically one of the best places to buy new music in my area (atlanta) was Borders. However, I've noted that new Border's stores being built in the area have only a fraction of the space devoted to CD's that the older stores have. Out of curiousity, I went to one of the older area Borders this weekend that has historically has maintained a huge music section. I was shocked to find at least 50% of the CD bins were empty. I inquired to an employee who said that CD sales were off so much, they have drastically reduced their inventory - choosing empty space over product. On the other hand, I went to a Best Buy and Fry's , both of which still have a sizable CD sections - for now.
Another article re CD sales
Yet, another interesting article re the decline of CD sales and popularity of downloading singles. The article raises an interesting parallel that I had not really considered, i.e. that artists/record companies are returning to the single as the primary medium for sales, such as in the 50's/60's when artists primary sold 45's with an A & B side as opposed to full length albums. I suppose its true that history does repeat itself.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/26/business/media/26music.html?pagewanted=1&ei=5070&en=926f719db494664e&ex=1175572800&emc=eta1
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/26/business/media/26music.html?pagewanted=1&ei=5070&en=926f719db494664e&ex=1175572800&emc=eta1