Morocco: one of the world's oldest libraries is renovated

FEZ, Morocco (AP) — The settling dust from renovations and the banging of tools aren't ideal sights and sounds for a library — but this is no ordinary library.

Chaouni is hoping it will mark an ideological change, too, and open to the public for the first time in its long history.

[...] the privilege of using the library has been limited to scholars who seek formal permission, and authorities haven't decided yet whether to change that.

From calligraphic designs on the walls to ceramic patterns on the floors and wooden carvings on the ceilings, the fingerprint of almost every ruling dynasty since the 9th century can be seen in the architecture.

Since ascending to the throne in 1999, King Mohammed VI has called for restorations at Qarawiyyin.

Chaouni is also lobbying for opening a public exhibition room for the first time - calling it "the biggest challenge of my soul" during the restoration project.