-------- Original Message --------
Subject:        opening of missing and stolen map database
Date:   Sun, 27 Apr 2008 13:22:20 -0400
From:   Joel Kovarsky <[log in to unmask]>
To:     Maps, Air Photo & Geospatial Systems Forum <[log in to unmask]>


This message is being posted to several relevant discussion lists. The
International Antiquarian Mapsellers Association (IAMA:
www.antiquemapdealers.com) is pleased to announce the opening of our new
Missing and Stolen Map Database: www.missingmaps.info .

There is no fee associated with the use of this database, and we
sincerely hope that librarians, dealers and collectors will make use of
this site. There are no current entries: those will depend on user
participation.

A few things to note:

       1. It is possible to browse the maps which will eventually be
       entered in the database without registration and login.

       2. Accessing the “add map” (or related book—atlases, etc.) form
       will require initial registration with subsequent login to the
       site. Using this form to post a report is a two-step process:
       first preview, then submission for final review. Any submission
       will then be reviewed confidentially prior to “going live” in
       the database. This is to ensure adequacy of copy specific detail
       and accuracy of contact information. (Note: Please try to
       include as much of the requested detail as possible.)

       3. There is a check-box towards the bottom of the registration
       form to hide contact details from public view, should anonymity
       be required. Use of the contact form for an individual entry
       will automatically be sent to the contact and the administrator,
       to be sure no notification is lost.

       4. Image uploads are done via the “add map” form, and if too
       large are automatically resized to the maximum allowed in the
       database (1200 x 1200 pixel). Very large files, such as TIFFs,
       will be excluded. Only images of the actual stolen item(s) are
       acceptable. There is a contact link from the “add map” page for
       any questions.

       5. Initially image uploads must be directly from your computer
       hard-drive into the database. [We are working on a mechanism to
       allow entry of a URL connecting to an image (of the specific
       missing or stolen item) residing on a third party server, with
       upload then occurring from that outside server.]


We understand that there will be some questions about the process, and
likely a few glitches, as this site evolves.

Please take a moment to view the acknowledgement page:
www.missingmaps.info/acknowledgements.htm . These are individuals and
institutions who are not IAMA members who actively and openly endorsed
this project during the early stages of development.

Joel Kovarsky