Qatar National Library (QNL) is organising a study day as part of the activities of the Qatar-Morocco Year of Culture celebrations, titled “The Ancient Libraries of Morocco: From Preserving Manuscripts to Beacons of Knowledge”.
The study day will provide an in-depth exploration of the historical development of ancient Moroccan libraries, tracing their founding and evolution to their current state. These libraries have experienced periods of flourishing and openness to external influences, which contributed to the development of scholars, elites, and societies. However, they have also faced challenges, crises, and disasters that led to a loss of prestige and vitality, often due to human actions.
Through three presentations, participants will delve into this heritage, revisiting key historical stages and addressing important questions: How did these libraries facilitate the transfer of knowledge and the circulation of texts within intellectual circles? In what ways did they serve as bridges for communication between local society and scientific institutions abroad? What does the future hold for books and paper in an increasingly digital world, and what is the fate of libraries and their patrons?
The speakers will be: Dr Abdelmajid al-Khayali: Head of Human Resources, Finance, and Scientific Research at the Hassania Library in Rabat; Dr Mustafa al-Tubi: University Professor and Head of the Research Team on Moroccan Manuscript Heritage at Ibn Zohr University, currently on a scientific mission at the Hassania Library. Abdelfattah Boukchouf: Director of the Qaraouiyine Library in Fez, Morocco, and the moderator Dr Moez Dridi, Senior Archivist at QNL.
The event will be held on November 13th, 2024, from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. in Arabic, with simultaneous interpretation provided in English. It will be open for the public, registration is via the link: https://events.qnl.qa/attend/wkJpD
