Written by Mathias Ghyoot (2025)

INtroduction

The Shariʿa College of Fes was formerly affiliated with Qarawiyin University in the old Medina of Fes. However, since 1975, it has been incorporated into Sidi Muhammad b. Abd Allah University. Today, the college is situated on the outskirts of the city and houses a library containing approximately 15,000 books, periodicals, and several dozen Arabic manuscripts and lithographs, predominately related to Islamic Studies. Notably, the library has benefited over the years from donations made by prominent Moroccan religious scholars.

The library of the Shariʿa College is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm.

Location: Google Maps

GOING THERE

The Shariʿa College is located on the outskirts of Fes, just south of the neighborhoods al-Narjis and Mont Fleuri. The best way to arrive is by car, either your own or a petit taxi. If you’re arriving with your own car, be aware that visitors are not allowed to park on the college’s premises. Instead, park right next to the steel gate, which is the main entrance of the Shariʿa College.

GETTING IN

Once you’re past the gate, turn right for about fifty meters until you see a large building on your left: the library of the Shariʿa College. Enter the building and approach one of the two head librarians, whose offices are located on your left. There is no registration needed to access the library, nor any fees. Merely present yourself and your research interests and you’ll most likely be allowed full access to the collections of the Shariʿa College.

Finding your material

Books and Periodicals

A digital catalog of the library’s collections does exist, but it is not readily accessible to users. However, the stacks—located in the basement—are open to visitors and are neatly organized by subject, including law (with sections for the various legal schools), theology, history, and other fields. The librarians are generally happy to assist with catalog searches upon request. Otherwise, visitors are encouraged to browse the stacks directly, as their size is quite manageable. Periodicals are shelved at the beginning of the collection and include complete runs of Majallat al-Manar, Majallat al-Azhar, and the published proceedings of various Moroccan law courts.

Manuscripts

The library of the Shariʿa College holds a small collection of Arabic manuscripts. Although these are not cataloged, the collection is limited in size and is kept in the office of the head librarians. Inquiries regarding the manuscripts should be directed to the librarians, who are generally happy to assist with browsing the collection.

Ordering your material

Books and Periodicals

Visitors are welcome to retrieve materials directly from the stacks and consult them at one of the few tables located at the front of the room, near the two staircases leading to the upper floor. Please be considerate and return books and periodicals to their proper place—or at the very least, leave them on the shelves—once you have finished using them.

Manuscripts

For manuscripts, please consult with the librarians, who will gladly assist you in retrieving any item from the collection. As these manuscripts are kept in the offices of the head librarians, you will most likely be asked to consult them there as well.

Ordering scans

At the time of my visit, there was no official policy regarding reproductions, and I was freely permitted to photograph both manuscripts and printed materials. In case of any uncertainty, it is best to consult the librarians first.

Food and well-being

There are no cafés or restaurants on site, and since the college is located on the outskirts of the city, I recommend either bringing a packed lunch or seeking out food in downtown Fes.