Conducting Research in the Map Collection

Do You Have a Map Of... ?

Looking for historical maps or air photos? The University Library Map Collection is a rich resource of scholarly materials, geospatial data, and reference materials to support your research in the fields of geography, geology, urban studies, and Los Angeles history.

Most of the cartographic resources are uncataloged and located in closed stacks. However, staff are available to help you find maps, air photos, and GIS data for your research projects. To request a research consultation, send an email using the Ask a Research Question form. Please allow approximately 24 hours for email inquiries. Once we have located the requested materials we will contact you to schedule a viewing appointment.

Our Reading Room & Service Desk

The Map Collection Reading Room is located in Room 26 (Garden Level) and is available for studying and browsing. Materials in the Reading Room (books, atlases, government documents) are non-circulating, but staff are available to help you find and use cartographic resources. The Reading Room has two (2) computer workstations equipped with Microsoft Office software, ArcDesktop, ArcPro, Photoshop, Illustrator, and QGIS.

Email librarymaps@csun.edu or call (818) 677-3465 for research help.

Access to the Collections

Historical cartographic collections are located in closed stacks and not open to general browsing. However, Map Collection staff are happy to help you with your research questions and pull materials for you to use, in consultation with the Map Curator. To access the collections, email us using the Ask a Research Question form, or call during business hours to make an appointment at (818) 677-3465. We will do our best to assist you.

Government documents are always freely accessible to any member of the general public.

Note: There are fees associated with some services, such as scanning and printing. Therefore, some requests will require patron approval prior to processing.