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GEOL Comps

Fall 2023

Topographic Maps

Sample of topographical map, USGS.gov

Image source: https://www.usgs.gov/products/maps/topo-maps

Maps

The library has an extensive set of topographic maps produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), which can be found in the Map Collection on the second floor of the Library. The maps, ranging in date from the early 1900's to the early 2000's, include features such as elevation (contour lines), hydrography, geographic place names, and a variety of cultural features. The maps are stored in pull-out drawers, alphabetically by state and then by quadrangle.  

Open drawer showing map of Minnesota

Additional maps are kept in filing cabinets in the Map Collection, many of which are cataloged and can be searched in Catalyst.  

 

Keyword Searching 

In Catalyst, enter a search that includes a geographical location and topic (ie: Minnesota soil). 

Under "Refine My Results," click on "Locations" filter to expand the options, and select "Carleton Library Government Documents Map in File Cabinets (2nd floor)."

After you have your results, there will be a sidebar on the left side of the page with filters you can select to narrow down the results. Under "Refine My Results," click on "Locations" filter to expand the options, and select "Carleton Library Government Documents Map in File Cabinets (2nd floor)."

A record for a map in our collection produced by Minnesota. Division of Waters, Soils, and Minerals.

There is more detailed information about Carleton's map collections on our Maps Guide.

Map collection shelves and tables

You can use any of the maps in this collection, while in the Library. Tables are provided for map viewing. When you are done using the maps, please feel free to leave them out on the viewing table or on top of the map drawers.

GIS data & online maps

There is a lot of GIS data available on the web for use.  The links listed below are some good places to start. Be aware that not all of the data sets available through these sites are free, though all of them have some free data available.

If you have questions about using GIS, take a look at the Carleton GIS Support page.