Support sorting configuration

**Problem**
When working with lib, the error messages could be more descriptive.

**Suggestion**
Improve error handling and add detailed error messages.

**Context**
This would help with debugging and maintenance.

Start by locating the relevant error-handling code under lib; the issue does not identify a file, command, or failing case. Clarify which errors need improved messages, then verify that the resulting messages provide useful debugging context.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.