The narrator is a nameless, seemingly elderly man who has lived in the Library his whole life. His interest lies in telling the story of the Library, meditating in wonder on its immensity and its elegance. He believes in the Library as a repository for all the truths of the universe, in contrast to some others he describes. He believes, ultimately, that the Library is based in an underlying concept, even if he cannot discern it. This dogged belief has animated his life, even though he has examined untold books without finding what he is looking for. As a true believer, he wants to make sure that others who may encounter this explanation can understand the design and scope of the universe. He does this despite his concern that humanity will die out soon, leaving only the Library.