Map library resources

Maps are everywhere. You’ll see them on your phone, while watching the weather forecast, in the newspaper, on your satnav, in advertising or while planning a walk. While maps are very easy to find online, they may not be the most suitable for your needs. The Map Library is home to the University of Portsmouth’s cartographic resources. Most items in the collection are not listed on the library catalogue so, if you have any mapping requirements, just come along and ask the Map Librarian.

Some of the things our Map Librarian can help you find include:

  • Maps to incorporate in your project, dissertation or thesis
  • Ordnance Survey data for use in GIS or CAD
  • The most detailed maps of Great Britain currently available
  • Historic maps of Portsmouth dating back to the 16th century
  • Online mapping available for other countries, from Australia to the USA
  • Geological maps and nautical charts

Historical Maps

We hold a significant collection of historic Ordnance Survey (OS) maps of the local area. This includes an almost complete set of OS County Series 1:2,500 maps of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, covering the period from 1860-1939. We also hold a rare and complete collection of OS 1:500 Town Plans of Portsmouth that date from the 1860s/70s.

Digital Maps

Map Library staff can provide advice about the use of the EDINA Digimap service, which provides online access to current and historical OS maps and data. You can find information about the simple registration process here https://digimap.edina.ac.uk/help/about/register/.

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Opening times

The Map Library does not have fixed opening times, although the Map Librarian is generally available from 09.00 -12.00 and 14.00 - 16.30. It is only open from Monday to Friday and is not open in the evening or at weekends. You are welcome to drop in, although it is best to contact the Map Librarian before making a special visit. Access to the Map Library is only possible when it is staffed.

Contact

David Sherren, Map Librarian

david.sherren@port.ac.uk
023 9284 3655

Location

University Library First Floor, in the rear corner opposite the Dentistry building.
SZ 63707 99718
50° 47' 36.7"N
01° 05' 51.0"W
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David Sherren

 

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