Cartographic materials

Statement of programs and library needs

The cartographic materials collection contains maps, cartographic data in electronic format, and relevant reference and serial publications supporting university teaching and research at all levels and in many subject fields, including geography, history, environmental and urban systems, agriculture, forestry, engineering and architecture.

I. Collection areas

A. Area: Cartographic Materials

 

B. Classes and Levels

Virginia                    Research
Southeastern United States  Research
United States               Study
Latin America               Study
Europe                      Study
Africa                      Study
Australasia and Oceania     Study
Asia			    Study
Arctic and Antarctic        Basic
World                       Basic
Celestial                   Basic

C. Chronology

Emphasis is on current materials. Works from all time periods, including reproductions are considered for purchase.

D. Geographic Guidelines

Cartographic materials from all areas of the world are collected. Some celestial materials are acquired.

E. Languages

Collection emphasis is on English language materials and English translations but materials in all languages are considered for purchase.

F. Treatment

Political, topographic, and thematic maps and cartographic data are collected. Maps and data sets produced from aerial photography and satellite imagery are also collected.

G. Formats

Printed materials (sheet maps, serials, and books), electronic data sets and photographic images are acquired. Globes and microformats are collected on a limited basis.

H. Multiple copies

Duplicate copies of heavily used materials are purchased.

II. Acquisition Strategy

A major portion of the cartographic collection is acquired on deposit from the United States Geological Survey, the Government Printing Office, the Census Bureau, other federal agencies and agencies of the Virginia state government. The map subject specialist selects the series to be acquired from the federal government as well as maps and other cartographic products to be purchased. Occasional gifts are received. The library actively seeks free materials from state and local agencies.

III. Collection Notes

Cartographic materials that are specifically geological in nature are not collected. The geosciences bibliographer is responsible for acquisition and maintenance of geological materials. Many reference works purchased for the geography collection and other collections or deposited by federal or state government agencies serve the needs of the cartographic materials collection, including bibliographies, indexes, guides, gazetteers, dictionaries and documentation for electronic data sets.

Revised 08/2004