If, like me, you have found it heartbreaking to hear the news of the supposed destruction of Timbuktu’s ancient manuscripts, (or MSS), then you may be interested to read the below two articles which give a slightly different, and perhaps more informed, view to those reported in our national press.
Whilst undoubtedly there has been some destruction, certainly of this valuable collection as a whole, quite how much destruction has been carried out still remains unclear, with no confirmed reports. Several other theories on the whereabouts of the missing MSS are proposed.
Well worth a read.
The Guardian: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/jan/28/destruction-timbuktu-manuscripts-offence-africa
Other Sources:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/priceless-manuscripts-missing-in-timbuktu/article7903879/
Zoe Finlay Paper Conservation 
Reblogged this on Cardmon's Blog and commented:
Interesting to see a different perspective.