-------- Original Message -------- Subject: voracious archies Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 18:14:37 -0400 From: HelenJane Armstrong <[log in to unmask]> To: MAPS-L (E-mail) <[log in to unmask]> I have been following with interest the emails in response to Alice's well presented discussion of difficulties with massive groups of people using architecture materials. It is what I call " the loved to death" part of map use. At the University of Florida we follow the suggestions that have been put forth in other emails by members of the LIST-Serv. This has led to us giving lectures on everything from how to use Tax maps to footprint maps of foreign cities. It avoids having to repeat ourselves 30-40 times. We have found most profs are very cooperative and only the new graduate assistants need a little information prior to their class. However, the first part of Alice's email, which has not been addressed, is the overwhelming use of a library by "out of town" visitors or others whom are unidentifiable by Librarians until a large group appears on the door step. These are more difficult to handle when they are not part of the Library's home institution. For the last 14 years, every Fall the University of Florida Design 7 Architecture class has made a field trip to New York City. This began well before 9/11 and is not always concerned with Ground Zero. During the fall term the class studios use our Map & Imagery Library extensively looking at every book and map we have. There is a special folder set up with over 4 dozen maps we have purposely purchased for the class. We include the Historical Atlas of New York City and even travel books. During this period, every teacher is advised nicely but forcefully that if they plan to visit the New York Public Library Map Division, they MUST contact the Library in advanced. They are given the NYPL website and the phone number. Since the field trip times have been set up for at least 6 months for University requirements this is no problem for them. Admittedly I tell them that this is the best way to get the utmost response and use of the collection. They should definitely identify the part of the city on which they will be concentrating. Of course I know full well the Map Division staff will always come through but I make it seem that it will be even more special. The response from the returning students have been glowing. Similar projects in Savannah, Charleston, and St. Augustine are handled this way. To those Map Librarians and professors who know that someone at their institution is going to New York City and probably the Map Division, I suggest that you help the NYPD staff and the patrons out by strongly encouraging the classes to contact NYPL first. It doesn't reduce the numbers visiting the Library but at least will make them easier to handle. There are other situations in which this type of advice and referral would be very helpful. We have the complete collection of original copyright Sanborn maps of Florida. which only can be seen by appointment or when staff is available. The complete collection of Florida aerial photos are also located in the UF. Most Sanborns and Aerials are on-line but often the originals are needed. Therefore, advance notice for classes and individuals is always helpful. Another wishful thought, is a cost sharing project with another institution for digitizing materials with a copy going to each. Finally Alice, I hope the South Florida visitors were not from the University of Florida. If they were please let us know and we will "gently" advice the professors. Good luck with finding a solution. As one of my directors said, we are victims of our own success and Public Relations efforts. He intended it as a compliment!! Helen HelenJane Armstrong, PhD Retired Head, Map & Imagery Library George A. Smathers Libraries University of Florida P.O. Box 117011 Gainesville, FL 32611-7011 -