Earth Day Exhibit in University Libraries GRMC

Earth Day Exhibit in Ball State University Libraries

In honor of Earth Day on April 26, the Geospatial Resources & Map Collection (GRMC) in Bracken Library is presenting an exhibit of two topographic maps revealing environmental changes. The GRMC maintains a collection of United States Geological Survey topographic maps of every state. As a Depository library, the GRMC receives new maps from the government regularly. The newest topographic map of Skagway, Alaska revealed some drastic environmental changes since the last printing of the map. The older map was printed in 1954 and shows the Davidson Glacier extending toward the Chilkat Inlet with a small lake at the base. The newest topographic map of the same area, published in 2004, reveals a receding glacier with a much larger lake at its base.

The GRMC maintains the collection of these topographic maps and additional historic topographic maps so that researchers and classes can study development and environmental changes. Maps in the GRMC can be borrowed for two weeks or longer for use in the classroom. Please contact the GRMC for more information about using topographic maps in research and learning.