Wasn't the question about whether or not they read other people's code. Doesn't make much sense to ask if Knuth reads his own book. Nor would the answer of no make any sense. Just this last year he discovered a new fact that he shared from Concrete Mathematics in the Christmas Tree Lecture. He clearly goes through them a lot.
Just saw I double posted in reply to you. Apologies.
Not sure what book I have in mind, then. I know there was one where they focus for many interviewees was whether or not they read other people's code.
And, I should add that I don't see it as a failing that people don't read some literature. I do think it is more approachable than it often gets credit for. To the point that I wish I had tried to read it years ago. That said, people that are being obviously productive should remain so using whatever strategy they have used to this point. :)
