Nobody steals books except kleptomaniacs and university students. In most places you can leave a book on the street and come back for in the next day.
The quote from Mark Helprin's "Freddy and Fredericka" amusingly suggests that the only people who steal books are kleptomaniacs or university students, implying that theft of literature is rare. The notion reflects the general respect and value society places on books, illustrating a sense of trust in the community regarding shared knowledge and resources.
Helprin highlights the idea that books, when left unattended, remain untouched by others, underscoring a unique relationship between people and literature. This sentiment indicates that in many areas, books are treated with such reverence that one could leave them out and expect them to be safe, showcasing a hopeful perspective on human nature and the sanctity of creative works.