Map Library Collection Development Policy
The primary purpose of the Map Library is to develop and maintain a modern, research-oriented collection of cartographic materials. Its staff is responsible for collecting cartographic material in all formats (paper, microform and digital) for the University of Georgia Libraries, including maps, atlases, remote sensed imagery, gazetteers, journals and cartographic reference materials. The Map Library’s holdings include:
- Sheet maps: current and historical U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps; topographic map sets for most countries in various scales; worldwide nautical and aeronautical charts; select thematic, country and city maps from around the world with an emphasis on the United States and the State of Georgia
- Atlases: general reference, national, historical and thematic
- Remote sensed imagery, primarily of the State of Georgia
- Journals related to map collections and map librarianship
- Gazetteers and place name guides
- Cartographic reference materials
Duplication of cartographic material between the Map Library and other UGA Libraries is usually limited to general reference atlases; however, exceptions can be made to meet user needs.
All cartographic materials are housed in the Map Library with the following exceptions:
- Select pre-20th century cartographic materials for which the Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library has primary responsibility
- Select general reference atlases and other items described above
The mission of the Map Library is to provide bibliographic, physical, and intellectual access to cartographic information consistent with the mission of the University of Georgia Libraries, with a particular emphasis on cartographic information related to the State of Georgia. Its primary responsibility is to provide cartographic information, resources and services to the students, staff and faculty of the University. As a regional resource center, its secondary responsibility is to meet the cartographic information needs of state, regional, national and international researchers.
