Meaning: The quote by Walter Lang, "It seems we will continue to have problems with this classification and it may be because it comes under the heading of creation rather than preservation," is a thought-provoking statement that touches upon the complex nature of classification and its implications in the context of creation and preservation. This quote raises questions about the challenges inherent in categorizing and organizing information, particularly when it involves the creation of new categories rather than the preservation of existing ones.

Lang's observation suggests that there are inherent difficulties in classifying certain types of information, and these challenges may stem from the fact that the classification process is more closely associated with creation rather than preservation. This distinction between creation and preservation highlights the different considerations and complexities involved in each process, particularly when it comes to organizing and categorizing information.

When we consider the act of preservation, it typically involves maintaining and safeguarding existing categories, structures, or information. Preservation often entails the retention of established classifications and the maintenance of their integrity over time. In contrast, the act of creation involves the generation of new categories, frameworks, or systems, which can introduce a range of complexities and uncertainties into the classification process.

One interpretation of Lang's quote is that the challenges with classification arise when there is a need to create new categories or classifications, rather than simply preserving and organizing existing ones. Creating new classifications requires careful consideration of how to best structure and organize information in a way that is meaningful, coherent, and useful. This process involves grappling with the inherent subjectivity and ambiguity that can arise when defining and delineating new categories.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that the difficulties in classification may be exacerbated when the focus shifts from preservation to creation. This shift may introduce a level of complexity that is not present when the primary concern is the preservation of existing classifications. The act of creation requires a deeper level of thought, analysis, and decision-making, as it involves establishing new parameters, criteria, and relationships within the classification system.

In the context of information management and organization, the challenges with classification and categorization are particularly relevant. With the exponential growth of digital information and data, the need to effectively classify and organize this vast amount of content has become increasingly critical. The quote by Walter Lang underscores the complexities and potential obstacles that can arise in this process, especially when new categories and classifications need to be created to accommodate evolving forms of information.

Lang's quote also prompts us to consider the broader implications of classification in various fields, such as library science, information architecture, and knowledge management. The act of classifying information not only shapes how we understand and interact with knowledge but also influences the accessibility, discoverability, and usability of information resources.

Ultimately, Lang's quote serves as a reminder of the intricate and multifaceted nature of classification, particularly when it involves the creation of new categories. It encourages us to critically examine the challenges and considerations inherent in this process, as well as the potential impact on how we organize, access, and interpret information in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.