Maps

Printed maps owned by the Library may be checked out by students, faculty and staff.

Large maps

Maps larger than 11" x 17" are kept in the a map case on the west wall of the Library's 2nd floor. (See the photo at the left.)

These maps are arranged by geographic area, and you can find a map by browsing. Or you can determine a particular map's case folder number by searching the Map Catalog. See the box on the left, to see links to individual geographical areas.

The Map File numbers found in the Catalog consist of three parts:  the first two refer to groups of folders within the Map File Case, and the final number is a unique sequential number for the particular map.  For more detailed information on the arrangement of maps in the case, consult  the guide sheets inside the top of the case.

The maps in the map case come from a variety of sources, primarily the Central Intelligence Agency and the National Geographic Society. Many are large enough for classroom use. Generally speaking, only the most current versions of maps are available, but the case does contain some older maps and some maps that deal with historical subjects.

Smaller maps

Smaller maps (from 8½" x 11" to 11" x 17") from the CIA are filed in a binder in the Documents stacks on the south side of the 2nd floor at the following classification number: PREX 3.10/4: . (See the photo at the right.)

These maps offer good, clear outlines in most cases and are very useful for scanning to include in papers and presentations. Most are simple political boundary maps but there are some thematic and physical features maps as well.

Arrangement of the maps in the binder is by Superintendent of Documents classification number, which usually, but not always, corresponds alphabetically to the country or area of the world that is covered. Classification numbers for these maps can be found in the Library's Catalog.

Finding maps in the Library Catalog

To limit a search of the Library's Catalog to maps, choose the Material Type "Printed Maps" on the Advanced Search screen.

Geological Maps

Geological topographic maps for several states are housed in the Earth Sciences Library in Garni Hall. Consult with David Turner, in that department, if you want to use any of these maps. Paper maps are no longer being received by the Library, but the U.S. Geological Survey makes all maps for the entire country available for free download on their website.

If you have any questions about the Library's map collection, please contact the librarian listed on this guide.

MapGive is an exciting open mapping project and volunteer opportunity. Follow the link to learn how to contribute to a map-"wikipedia" for parts of the world where detailed geographic data is lacking.

The project is developed by the State Department's Humanitarian Information Unit, and aims to make geographical data available to responders in a crisis, or for help in developing resources in under-served communities.

This guide was originally developed by retired librarian Kathy Amen.