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Paradox Quote by Alberto Manguel

“This is the paradox presented by every general library: that if, to a lesser or greater extent, it intends to accumulate and preserve as comprehensive as possible a record of the world, then ultimately its task must be redundant, since it can only be satisfied when the library's borders coincide…” quote by Alberto Manguel
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““This is the paradox presented by every general library: that if, to a lesser or greater extent, it intends to accumulate and preserve as comprehensive as possible a record of the world, then ultimately its task must be redundant, since it can only be satisfied when the library's borders coincide with those of the world itself.””

Alberto Manguel

About This Quote

Source Book: The Library at Night by Alberto Manguel, 2016

Highlights the paradox that a library aims to contain all knowledge, yet can never be complete because the world is infinite.

In simple terms: Libraries can’t hold everything because the world is endless.

Key Takeaway

Accept the limits of knowledge and keep learning.

Themes

knowledge paradox infinity library learning

Mood

reflective critical thoughtful

Type

analytical informative

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • digital archiving
  • curation
  • policy making

Key Concepts

epistemology information theory human curiosity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can libraries stay relevant in the digital age?
  • What responsibilities do they have to represent diverse voices?
A Different Perspective

Even with digital expansion, gaps remain and bias persists.

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