I have always bought my own writing implements, good ones, since the 1970s. I have never depended on, or indeed been interested in, free handouts.
The IFE is a different aspect. That’s why we have purchased our own Kindles, so that WE can choose what we view/read. Other pax I believe use tablets with downloaded films etc.
We believe in being self-sufficient, and not depending on BA (or whoever) to meet our minutest needs.