Because knowledge is a valuable thing in this world. Someone has to try and protect it and spread it around.
Research Artifacts are items in Kenshi which are required to research Technology on a Research Bench.
Book artifacts are common and can easily be found in Mechanical Shops and other similar shops. The other artifact types can also be found in shops such as Scraphouse and Travel and Repairs Shops. Although, these items are primarily found in Ancient Locations.