Interactive exhibit looks at Islam in Asia


Molly Orbon ’16

A new interactive exhibit outside the Asia Reading Room in Kroch Library explores the history and influence of Islam in Asia, which is home to nearly two-thirds of the world’s Muslim population.

The exhibit, “Islam in Asia: Diversity in Past and Present,” is organized by the library’s Division of Asia Collections. It explores the diversity of Asia’s Islamic heritage, the spread of religion, culture and commerce along the ancient Silk Road, and how the religion itself was affected by Asia’s cultures and traditions.

The exhibit also solicits comments from viewers about their perceptions of Islam in Asia, and at least one class plans to incorporate the resources in the exhibit into coursework.

“Even though Islam is most closely associated with the Middle East, most of the world’s Muslims actually live in Asia,” said Ali Houissa, Middle East and Islamic Studies librarian, who curated the exhibit. “Over millennia, they brought their beliefs and rich culture to millions of people, and this exhibit provides an opportunity to explore that cultural exchange.”

The exhibit will be on display through April.

Melanie Lefkowitz