The knitting and crochet books are popular at the library, but I don't know how many people actually make anything after borrowing the books. I usually don't pry into the private lives of our patrons, after all. I just know books specifically about cable knit sweaters specifically were recently returned.
In my opinion and from what I know about other knitters, we are always excited for a chance to talk about our crafts so ask away! I think most people borrow the knitting books because they actually want to make something, if you just wanna browse for inspiration there is always the internet and pinterest full of crafts.