John R. Borchert Map Library

The John R. Borchert Map Library, in the sub basement of Wilson Library, specializes in cartographic collections and geospatial services that support research and instruction. The Map Library also contains unique collections of cartographic materials related to Minnesota.

Information

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 photographs.

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

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Collections and projects

Image showing a plat map near Lake Hiawatha in Minneapolis

Plat maps and atlases

Land ownership maps and atlases for Minnesota cities and counties.

Explore plats
Aerial photograph image showing part of East Bank campus

Aerial photography

Extensive print and digital collection of aerial photography for the State of Minnesota.

Explore aerials
Image of a map of Asia from 1579

Digital collections

Explore our digital collections, including historical maps of the Twin Cities, India, and Southeast Asia.

Explore digitized collections
Image illustrates a comparison between historical and current aerial imagery

Special projects

Collaborations with researchers, campus partners, and other academic institutions.

Explore projects

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Data, databases, and guides

Image shows part of a topographic data set of Minneapolis

Geospatial data

Includes web portals for locating GIS datasets, GIS software, and adding GIS data into your research.

Search for geodata
Image shows a geospatial data set of Minneapolis & St. Paul

Databases and tools

Map and geography resources licensed by the University Libraries.

Search databases

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Other resources

Image showing an example of a topographic map

Topographic maps

Maps showing physical land features, boundaries, place names, and more.

Find topo maps
Image showing an example of a city map

World city maps

Online collections of maps for cities around the world.

Find city maps
Image illustrating information available in a gazetteer

Gazetteers and place names

Search for place names in the United States and around the world.

Find place names
Image of Dr. Borchert pointing at a map on the wall

About Dr. Borchert

Learn more about the Map Library's namesake.

Learn more

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Visit

Hours
Today
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wed, Sep 29
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thu, Sep 30
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fri, Oct 1
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sat, Oct 2
Closed
More Borchert Map Library hours

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