The world’s oldest library proudly stands in Fez, Morocco: started by a Muslim woman, restored by a Muslim woman, and in this 40 page book the library itself tells its own story in a book authored by a Muslim woman. The personified library shares a few highlights from its early start as a corner in Fatima Al-Fihri’s masjid and university to collections spanning multiple buildings, from a bustling center of learning and knowledge to a place of disrepair and neglect. Staying on an early elementary level, the informative author’s note and references make the book engaging for older readers as well, and an incredible addition to bookshelves everywhere.
The book starts with the library introducing itself and welcoming the reader. “Merhaba! I am Al-Qarawiyyin Library–the oldest library in the world.” At over a thousand years old, the library begins at the hands of Fatima Al-Fihri in 859 who dared to dream big and created a space of learning and worship in Morocco.
As the courtyards and collections grew, seekers of knowledge, from all backgrounds, gathered to discuss, debate, and learn. Special rooms with special locks kept books safe: a Quran written on camel-leather, a philosophers drawings in gold ink.
Nearly destroyed once by a fire, the library endured, but over time the rooms were no longer filled with the bustle of people. One day a small girl, Aziza, paused at the door, but did not enter for many years. When she did return, she came as an architect with a team to restore the library and invite people back in to read, learn, and dream.
It delights me that such an important story is available to be widely learned from and appreciated. You can preorder a copy here from Amazon.
Islamic School Librarian 