The Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the most sacred places in Islam. Its location in the heart of Old Jerusalem makes it a dangerous flashpoint that continues up to 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 contained several rare books they were scanning as well as a substantial number of people using the library. The Childrens Library was delightful and even included many well-used Harry Potter books. I photographed a young mother reading a childrens book to her infant. The universal nature of the spoken word in this tender scene stood in contrast to the surrounding contention and violence.