Loading Events

The Legacy of Lending Libraries in the Islamic History

April 18 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Free

Learn the historical significance of libraries and educational centers in the Islamic world and reintroduce these vital institutions within our community. Sidi Arshan Ahmad is co-founder of Burooj Library, a new free Islamic lending library in East Bay.

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Friday, April 18 | MCC Prayer Hall | Join us in person or watch virtually at mcceastbay.org/live 

Questions? events@mcceastbay.org 

About the Speaker
Arshan Ahmad is the co-founder of Burooj Library. As homeschooling parents, he and his wife recognized the importance of sharing knowledge, and thus, Burooj Library was born. They have two locations: 492 C Street in Hayward and 860 Hillview Court, Suite 160 in Milpitas.

Sidi Arshan is a serial entrepreneur who started FridayHQ, a Muslim community and fund that invests in Muslim startups. He was previously a Product Manager at startups and tech companies around the Bay Area and studied traditional Islamic knowledge at Darul Uloom, Canada.

TheTh

The Legacy of Islamic Lending Libraries

Islamic lending libraries are specialized libraries that cater to the informational and educational needs of the Muslim community, often focusing on Islamic studies, theology, history, and related topics. They can be found in mosques, Islamic schools (madrasas), and research centers. The libraries may also offer general collections, including fiction, non-fiction, and resources in multiple languages. 

Key Features of Islamic Lending Libraries:
  • Focus on Islamic Studies:
    They often feature books, articles, and other materials related to Islamic theology, history, culture, and law. 

  • Community Focus:
    Many are designed to serve the specific needs of the local Muslim community, providing resources for religious education, personal development, and cultural enrichment. 

  • Variety of Materials:
    They may offer a wide range of resources, including books, journals, audio-visual materials, and digital resources. 

  • Membership and Borrowing:
    Some may require membership or a small donation to borrow materials. 

  • Historical Significance:
    In the past, Islamic libraries were often associated with mosques and research centers, playing a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. 

Examples of Islamic Libraries:
  • The IRC in Milwaukee is known as the largest Islamic lending library in Wisconsin, offering a vast collection on Islam and Muslims. 

  • The AIC library in Chicago serves students, faculty, and researchers, providing access to books and journals in multiple languages. 

  • Mosque Libraries:
    Many mosques have associated libraries that cater to the needs of their congregation. 

  • Bayt al-Hikma (House of Wisdom):
    Historically, these were prominent centers for learning and research, often housing extensive collections of books. 

MCC East Bay

5724 W Las Positas Blvd #300
Pleasanton, CA 94588 United States