Are batteries easily found OR......

Is like so many other things that are supposed to be the next best thing but are disposable? I mean...When I finally bought my first digital camera when those were the bomb, when the battery died, I could not find a replacement anywhere. I was left with a $290 camera that was useless and it was hardly a year old. I sent Kodac a e mail and all I got was the better version....the more expensive one ...pushed on me.