Tag Archives: NYPL map division

NYPL map division wrap-up and preparing for next week

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The Map Division is open 6 days a week to the public – and YOU – for further research

We visited the NYPL map division on Wednesday and topic groups studied maps to find evidence for hypotheses. Site report #4, based on the NYPL visit, is due on Thursday, March 30; use the template for #3, and be sure to save it as a reduced size PDF to upload to our course site when you’re ready to submit it.

Looking ahead to next week: on Monday, come prepared to discuss the visit to the Map Division. We’ll also discuss quantitative data sources for research.

On Wednesday, March 29 we visit the library of the New-York Historical Society, Central Park West at 77th Street in Manhattan (B or C trains to 72nd Street; 1, 2, 3 trains to 72nd Street). Our research visit begins at 1:45 sharp, so please plan on arriving by 1:30 to register and check your coats and bags. Please review visitor information and policies in advance of our visit.

Review of Monday 3/20 and preparing for NYPL Map Division trip on Wednesday 3/22

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Today we discussed the complexities of maps and representations of geographic and spatial data. Consider these questions: How does geographic information address your group’s hypothesis, or how could information from a map lead you to a solution? What are some potential “lies” or omissions you might encounter when consulting historical maps?

We reviewed the Map Warper, a tool that allows anyone to georectify historical maps over a contemporary street grid. On Wednesday, we meet at the New York Public Library, Map Division. Enter the library at 5th Avenue & 42nd Street. Go up the large central staircase to the second floor. We meet at 1:45 SHARP in room 216. We’re meeting at the main research library, called the Schwarzman Building, at 476 Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street. If you see Patience and Fortitude, you’re good!

Before Wednesday, please read About the Map Division from the NYPL website. Remember, site report #3 is due on Wednesday by the start of class.