To schedule an appointment, simply fill our our the reference request form below. For general reference and research inquiries, please visit the Ask a Librarian form.
The Leventhal Map & Education Center offers geospatial information services to help you create, find, manipulate, and preserve information stored in modern digital formats.
We can work with you to:
Find appropriate spatial datasets
Overlay historic maps on modern ones
Extract geospatial data from archival materials
Discover digital mapping resources, guides, and tutorials
Deliver one-on-one consultations with geospatial library staff
Working with geographic information systems (GIS) to create a digital map requires cartographic knowledge, technical training, and familiarity with a variety of spatial data formats. While we aren't able to teach these skills on an individual basis, you can visit our Research Guide on "Learning GIS and Finding Geospatial Data" to learn more about the core concepts of GIS. If you more questions once you're explored our guides, consider making an appointment with library staff using the button below.
The Leventhal Center maintains spatial datasets on our Data Portal, such as all the town corners in Massachusetts and Boston's shoreline changes over time. We can also connect you with other geospatial data resources and public repositories.
If you just need a digital map, our staff can help you find digital maps and mapping applications that fit your needs. If you are a researcher, teacher, member of the public, or community organization interested in creating original cartographic and digital works, our Grants in Aid for Works in Progress program may be a good fit for you.