Harvard Map Collection
The Harvard Map Collection is one of the largest and oldest collections of cartographic materials in the United States. The collections include rare editions of Mercator, Ortelius, and Ptolemaic atlases and large-scale current topographic maps.
Library Tools & Services

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The Harvard Map Collection is one of the largest and oldest collections of cartographic materials in the United States.
Scanners (Color)
Scanners (B&W)
Copiers
The Harvard Map Collection is one of the largest and oldest collections of cartographic materials in the United States.
Scanners (Color)
Scanners (B&W)
Copiers
The Harvard Map Collection is one of the largest and oldest collections of cartographic materials in the United States.
Scanners (Color)
Scanners (B&W)
Copiers
Overview
The collections include rare editions of Mercator, Ortelius, and Ptolemaic atlases and large-scale current topographic maps. Topographic maps, city plans, nautical charts and thematic maps are represented through all chronological periods and significant map makers. GIS software is supported with geospacial data at global, national, state and local levels.
Print Collection
Our print collection includes aerial photography and remotely sensed images; antiquarian maps; atlases, gazetteers, books and periodicals; fire insurance maps; nautical charts; street maps; thematic maps; topographic maps and wall maps. See the Print Collection page for more information.
Digital Collection
Thousands of data layers are available for use in Geographic Information Systems on the HMC research workstations. The Map Collection is also the primary contributor of GIS data to the Harvard Geospatial Library, where even more layers can be downloaded. See Digital Collections for more information.
- GIS Support by Appointment
http://hcl.harvard.edu/libraries/maps/gettingstartedgis.cfm#instruction
- Map Collection Reproductions
- Ask a Librarian
- Visitor
The Harvard Map Collection is open to all researchers regardless of affiliation. All researchers must register for a Special Collections Request Account. Patrons can register online by going to the Special Collections Request Account. For more information see Access to Special Collections.
Patrons who are not currently affiliated with Harvard University or who do not hold a Special Borrower Card will need to visit the Library Privileges Office at Widener Library after registering to obtain a Harvard College Library Special Collections Card. Patrons are required to present a valid Harvard ID, HCL Special Borrower Card, or HCL Special Collections Card at the library in order to enter the building.
Group tours and classes must be arranged in advance by contacting Joseph Garver via e-mail (garver@fas.harvard.edu).
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The Map Collection is located on Level P1 of Pusey Library, which is accessible through the front door of Lamont Library. Please call in advance to make arrangements to visit. Please note that the Harvard Theatre Collection materials are only accessible through Houghton Library. See the Disability Services page.

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