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Tips for Locating Digital Images Online

Searching the LC bibliographic database

The Library's online catalog of holdings includes maps; however, only those maps received since 1969 are described in the online catalog. This catalog includes only bibliographic information not actual images. If a map has been scanned and is in our Online Map Collection there will be a link in the record to the image. If you are only looking for maps, please "Limit" your search to the "Location" of "Geography and Map Collections". Also bear in mind that a "Guided Search" works best for map material.

Searching for online map images on LC's web site

Our online Map Collection contains only non-copyrighted maps and are, therefore, primarily maps dated prior to 1923. To search for online images on the Geography and Map Division Online Map Collections you can either do a search on the Online Map Collection home page or do a search on the home page for one of the themes to limit your search to just that theme. Be sure to try a keyword search if you are having trouble locating material.

Searching the Internet for digital map images

Google Search. This search engine can be effectively searched for maps by using quotation marks around phrases and by adding + maps to your search. For example, United States counties, Illinois + maps, North Dakota + maps.

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  Home >> Tips for Locating Digital Images Online
  The Library of Congress >> Especially for Researchers >> Research Centers
  October 27, 2005
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