"I'm really a library man, or second-hand book man"

John Le Carre, the prolific writer, is understood for his love of pre-owned publications and collections. When he states that he is a "collection male, or pre-owned book man," he is expressing his preference for these avenues of reading, rather than purchasing brand-new publications. This view is reflective of an individuality that values conservation, understanding, and also the buildup of concepts. As a "library man," Le Carre is someone who comprehends the importance of the past and the value of maintaining it for future generations. By extension, his words urge others to locate worth in the knowledge and experiences of those that came prior to us.