The al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the most sacred places of Islam. Its location in the heart of Old Jerusalem makes it a flashpoint whose danger persists today. Periodically, the Israeli Army sweeps through this area, which they call the Temple Mount, and the Muslims call Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary). The mosque itself is open only to Muslims but located right next door is the al-Aqsa Mosque Library, which is open to the public. The library contains several rare books that, during our visit, were being scanned and catalogued. The Childrens Library was delightful and included many well-used Harry Potter books in Arabic. The presence of the baby carriage and young child at the library entrance was a hopeful contrast to the surrounding contention and violence.