About the Borchert Map Library

Until further notice, access to the Map Library is limited to library staff only.

For access to many of our maps, aerial photographs, and other physical materials, please search for the item in Libraries search. Sign in and place a “Get It” request and you can pick up items at one of our four open buildings — Wilson, Walter, Health Sciences, and Magrath libraries — or have them delivered to your office or residence hall.

For access to non-circulating materials or for in-depth research assistance, please send an email to mapref@umn.edu.

Collection & Services

The John R. Borchert Map Library serves the University of Minnesota community and the State of Minnesota, including other academic institutions, corporate patrons and the general public. Borchert Map Library student staff members are available to assist patrons in locating materials and using maps and aerial photos. Scanners are available for use in the Automated Cartographic Information Center and photocopiers are available in the basement level of Wilson Library. Patrons may also bring cameras to the library to photograph fragile maps and materials. NOTE: For in-depth research assistance please make an appointment

Circulation Policy

University of Minnesota students, staff, faculty, Friends of the Library and special privilege users may borrow books, atlases and maps. Books and atlases circulate for the University Libraries’ standard loan periods. Aerial photographs circulate for four weeks. Maps circulate for one week. Journals circulate for one week. Large or heavily used atlases and rare materials do not circulate except by special permission. Fragile items do not leave the library and may not be photocopied.

Make a Gift

The John R. Borchert Map Library Fund helps to strengthen the John R. Borchert Map Library, part of the University of Minnesota's Department of Geography, Environment, and Society, through the purchase of maps and equipment, support of students, and further development of the library staff.