Should the players read this?

The page you asked for is part of this.

Players aren't expected to read this book. There's a Setting Overview in the game's digital files (also downloadable from lampblackandbrimstone.com). Players should definitely read that.

It's okay for players to read this book if they want to. Some players like to better understand the setting, to help shape their play or inform their answers to GM questions. Some enjoy that feeling of dread when they recognize what monster the GM is hinting at, or that feeling of awe when the GM introduces an arcanum that they've read about.

Just remember that every group's version of Stonetop is different. If you're playing in a game and you've read this book, don't be a snob about it. The lore that you and your group establish in play is what's important.

And to be clear: if you're the kind of player who prefers to discover a game's world through play, to experience it like your character would, then don't read this book. You're certainly not expected to!