Electronic maps: sources and techniques

Maps can be challenging to reference librarians, especially to those without the specialized skills needed for working with the material. Such is the same with maps found on the Internet. Finding, using, saving, or printing maps requires different strategies than those taken with other online documents. This article discusses the value of electronic maps, will help to form accurate expectations as to what one should expect to find, and cover some useful Internet sites for finding freely available general maps. Last, some strategies in working with large graphic files will assist reference librarians in putting electronic maps into the hands of their patrons.