Lirael explains that the library is extremely ancient and vast, housing many things that are kept hidden for safety reasons. It contains dangerous creatures, forbidden knowledge, and artifacts that are potentially harmful, emphasizing the risks involved in exploring certain areas of the library. The library’s depth and age mean it holds secrets that are not meant for casual discovery, often requiring caution and preparation.

"Your librarians go into battle?" someone asks. Lirael responds, "When they must," highlighting the idea that librarians must sometimes confront these dangers directly. The library is portrayed as a place of great power and peril, where knowledge is guarded fiercely and only accessed by those who understand the risks. This underscores the theme of knowledge as both a valuable resource and a potential threat."