In the heart of Rabat, amidst the bustling Mohammed V Avenue, stands a small bookstore that has become a beacon of knowledge and resilience in the city. This bookstore, owned by the 76-year-old Mohammed Aziz, is not just a place to buy books; it is a symbol of dedication to spreading literacy and a love for literature.
Mohammed Aziz’s journey began with hardship. As an orphan at the age of six, he had to sell fish to survive. Despite facing financial difficulties, Aziz was determined to pursue knowledge. However, the increasing cost of textbooks made it challenging for him to continue his education beyond junior high school.
In 1963, Aziz started selling books under a tree with just a rug and nine books. This humble beginning marked the start of his lifelong commitment to spreading knowledge. Over the years, his bookstore has grown into a treasure trove of over 4,000 books in various languages, including rare and classic collections that are hard to find elsewhere.
Aziz’s bookstore is not just a place to buy books; it is a hub for learning and cultural exchange. He has created a welcoming environment where people from all walks of life can come together to discover the joys of reading. His bookstore has become a gathering place for book lovers, offering a wide range of books from different genres and languages.
Despite facing challenges from modern technologies like e-books and large bookstores, Aziz has remained steadfast in his commitment to providing quality books and excellent service to his customers. His dedication has made him a respected figure in Rabat, known not only as a book seller but also as a champion of literacy and education.
Aziz’s impact goes beyond the walls of his bookstore. He actively promotes reading and literature in Rabat, organizing book events and discussions to foster a love for reading among the community. His efforts have helped improve the literacy rate in Morocco, which has decreased from 87 percent in 1960 to 32 percent in 2014.
As the oldest book seller in Rabat, Mohammed Aziz continues to inspire generations with his passion for books and knowledge. His bookstore stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication to making a difference in the world. Aziz’s story reminds us that no matter the obstacles we face, with determination and a love for learning, we can achieve great things.
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