They are definitely a dying breed (figuratively and literally). The local I used is still in business. The guy is 70+ years old. I think all of his clients are 60+ yo. No one young uses a local anymore. Why?
1. Online books to easy to use (especially with apps).
2. Locals typically offer more expensive lines than you can get elsewhere.
3. Sometime slow pay you, worse than an online book.
Why use a local?
1. They allow credit (w/ risks).