The way I look at it, there are a few issues here:
(1) we need to cut some slacks to others, even though at times it looks as if we have the right to demand for everything. Doctors, grant them that exclusivity if need be. Similarly, in a police or fire station, I expect to see them slacking and not staying 100% regimental and alert. These professionals are human too. Even in restaurants, if the waiters or waitress are taking a break, and it is non-peak, cut them some slack and space. So, perhaps, such exclusivity becomes a perk. But this is just my perspective, my viewpoint.
(2) the rules are probably written by the admin/management, not the cafe staff. They merely follow orders. Perhaps, more tact should be exercised when explaining the rules to the thread starter. I believe she was just following some internal protocol, not intentionally making it hard for the patrons. In such situation, how would I handle the situation? "Sir, my apology, we have this company policy that the newspapers are reserved for the doctors, until a certain time. Allow me to check around or hold a copy for you, until no one is reading? I will revert to you in a minute." Would that be a reasonable response? Do note that this is easier said than done, given that the cafe staff might not be well trained in full customer service in her jobscope. Perhaps life is easier when we lower our expectations of these employees when we deal with them? Again, my attitude towards others, my perspectives.
(3) is the newspaper available for sale in the cafe, pharmacy or the convenience shop in TMC? If so, I will just buy a copy and not let $1 bothers me for the entire day. But that's just me, my choice, my course of action.
Life is never white or black. Many times, a huge shade is in the grey zone - and that's how we seek sympathy and grant kindness within that emotional solace.
Live and let live makes oneself open up, unload burdens, and make friends.