Today in 2017, the Library of Al-Qarawiyyin, the world's oldest continually operating library (established in 1359), reopened after a major restoration.
Karen Frances Eng writes:
The al-Qarawiyyin, which includes a mosque, library, and university, was founded [in 859] by Fatima El-Fihriya, the daughter of a rich immigrant from al-Qayrawan (Tunisia today). Well educated and devout, she vowed to spend her entire inheritance on building a mosque and knowledge center for her community. According to UNESCO, the result is the oldest operational educational institution in the world, with a high-profile role call of alumni. Mystic poet and philosopher Ibn Al-‘Arabi studied there in the 12th century, historian and economist Ibn Khaldun attended in the 14th century, while in medieval times, Al-Qarawiyyin played a leading role in the transfer of knowledge between Muslims and Europeans.
Also today, in 1911, the New York Public Library was officially dedicated. Between 30,000 and 50,000 visitors streamed through the building the first day it was open.