manuscripts

When al-Qaida invaded the historic city of Timbuktu, Malian librarian Abdel Kader Haidara worked under the cover of night to save thousands of ancient manuscripts - documenting African knowledge in astronomy, poetry, religion and science - from the extremists.

The oldest library in the world, founded by a woman, is being rehabilitated by another woman. The al-Qarawiyyin Library in Fez, Morocco will reopen its doors in May 2016. The refurbishment came with its challenges and surprises for architect Aziza Chaouni.