The Timbuktu Job | Explorer | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Amidst an assault by Al-Qaeda and the destruction of shrines, a brave librarian, Abdulqader, organizes the rescue and preservation of thousands of priceless manuscripts in Timbuktu.

Key Insights

• 🤑 Timbuktu has a rich history of writing and trading valuable manuscripts, focusing on various subjects like poetry, astronomy, and mathematics.
• 💁 The attackers in Timbuktu promoted a radically different strain of Islam compared to the more moderate form practiced historically.
• 🥺 Abdulqader's bravery and inspiration were instrumental in saving the manuscripts, with his efforts leading to the defeat of the jihadists' attempt to destroy the cultural heritage.
• ⌛ The successful preservation of the manuscripts highlights the importance of safeguarding cultural treasures during times of conflict.
• 🍉 The digitization of the manuscripts not only ensures their long-term preservation but also facilitates wider access and sharing of this invaluable knowledge.
• 👾 Rebuilding the library network in Timbuktu is crucial to creating a space for the return of the manuscripts and the continuation of scholarly activities.

Transcript

when Al-Qaeda invaded Northern Marley it was only a matter of time before they started burning books but in timbuk 2 one librarian decided he couldn't let thousands of years worth of history and literature be destroyed without a fight there was nothing but gunfire everywhere I was totally taken off guard I wasn't expecting anything like this I mean... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Abdulqader gather support from fellow librarians to save the manuscripts?

Abdulqader called a meeting with librarians, highlighting the importance of preserving the manuscripts and urging them to take action in buying foot lockers and packing the manuscripts at night.

Q: What challenges did they face while transporting the manuscripts to Bomo?

They faced chaos, looting, and the risk of being exposed by informants. To overcome this, they disguised themselves as robbers and mixed in with the chaos, successfully transporting the manuscripts to safety.

Q: How did the French helicopter play a role in saving the manuscripts?

A French helicopter pilot spotted the trunks being carried up river and initially suspected smuggling. However, after confirming they contained manuscripts, the pilot let them pass unscathed, ensuring the manuscripts reached their destination safely.

Q: What is the current status of the manuscripts?

The manuscripts have been consolidated in a single facility in Bomo and are in good condition. They are being digitized systematically, and the hope is to return them to the libraries in Timbuktu once peace is reestablished.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Al-Qaeda invades Timbuktu and starts destroying books, leading librarian Abdulqader to take action to save the invaluable manuscripts.

• Abdulqader organizes volunteers to buy foot lockers and pack hundreds of thousands of manuscripts at night to avoid Islamic police.

• The manuscripts are transported 606 miles to a safe location in the capital, Bomo, and are now being digitized for future return to the restored libraries.