In Lirael by Garth Nix, the story mentions the existence of rare and potentially hazardous objects that require direct retrieval. These items are so valuable or dangerous that only trusted and well-prepared individuals can go after them, often involving significant effort and caution.
Sometimes, the task of acquiring these items demands the involvement of large groups of armed librarians, highlighting the level of danger or importance associated with these objects. This reflects the high stakes and the critical roles these characters play in safeguarding and managing powerful artifacts.