Can The Public Borrow Books From The World Oldest Library?

2025-07-15 16:01:00 86

3 Answers

Kate
Kate
2025-07-17 19:16:36
I've always been fascinated by ancient libraries, especially the world's oldest ones. The Al-Qarawiyyin Library in Fez, Morocco, is often cited as the oldest operating library, dating back to the 9th century. While it's a treasure trove of historical manuscripts, the public can't just walk in and borrow books like a modern library. Most of its collection consists of rare, fragile texts, some over a thousand years old. Scholars and researchers can access them under strict supervision, but casual borrowing isn't an option. It's more of a scholarly archive than a lending library. Still, the idea of touching books that have survived centuries is mind-blowing.
Mila
Mila
2025-07-17 16:13:17
The Al-Qarawiyyin Library, founded in 859 AD, is a marvel of human history, but its accessibility is limited. I remember reading about its restoration a few years ago, which sparked my curiosity. Unlike public libraries today, it doesn’t operate on a lending system. The manuscripts there are priceless—think handwritten Qurans, ancient astronomy texts, and philosophical works. Visitors can tour parts of the library, but handling the books requires special permission.

For researchers, it’s a goldmine. I’ve heard stories of scholars traveling there to study its collections, but even they can’t take anything home. The library’s priority is preservation, not circulation. Modern libraries are about sharing knowledge freely, but places like Al-Qarawiyyin remind us that some knowledge is too precious to risk losing. If you’re looking for a place to borrow books, this isn’t it—but it’s a window into the past that’s worth admiring.
Mila
Mila
2025-07-17 03:29:08
Libraries like Al-Qarawiyyin are more like museums for books. I’ve dreamed of visiting one day, but I know I wouldn’t be able to flip through its manuscripts casually. The library holds over 4,000 rare volumes, including works by Ibn Khaldun and Averroes. While it’s open to the public for tours, borrowing isn’t an option. The focus is on protecting these artifacts from wear and tear.

Interestingly, some digitization projects are making parts of its collection accessible online. It’s not the same as holding a centuries-old book, but it’s a step toward sharing its treasures. For now, though, the oldest library in the world keeps its books under lock and key—rightfully so.
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