The oldest library in the world, Al-Qarawiyyin Library located in Fes, Morocco, is opening to the public!
Up until recently, only researchers had access to the library.
The library has been undergoing a three year restoration, led by architect Aziza Chaouni.
“There has to be a fine balance between keeping the original spaces, addressing the needs of current users, including students, researchers and visitors, and integrating new sustainable technologies — solar panels, water collection for garden irrigation, and so on,” Chaouni said .
Founded by Fatima Al Fihri and built in 859, the library was the best place for scholars, poets and theologians for hundreds of years including Ibn Khaldun's Muqadimmah and a 9th-century Quran written in Kufic calligraphy.
It is considered the oldest existing, continually operating and the first degree awarding educational institution in the world according to UNESCO and Guinness World Records.
Originally a mosque, the center expanded into a university in the 10th century. It first opened to the public after being restored in May.
Eds. Note: While the renovations were completed in May and it was announced the library had been opened, a recent visitor to Al-Qarawiyyin says it has not yet been opened to the general public.