Hello Harvey,

In our original move back in 2008, we were forced to move the map cases leaving the drawers in the map case frame.  This was due to small elevators that led to the main floor of Hoskins Library.  The movers tipped the map cases on their side and wheeled them into the elevators on dollies.  A couple weeks prior to the move, we secured each map drawer with cardboard so that the maps wouldn’t shift.  We also labelled each map case frame, drawers, bases, and top to ensure each map case was put back together with the same parts.  Moving the maps this way proved to work well and we were fortunate to have experienced movers who were careful not to lift the cases using the map case drawer handles, etc.  A good portion of our map cases are WWII era, so they were stronger, but also heavier than the other (newer) five drawer map cases that we have.  This past spring we have had to move the maps once again back to Hoskins Library.  If we had a larger elevator, we probably would have placed the map drawers (with maps) on pallets and wrapped them with plastic wrap.  If you have the space to move the map cases with the drawers removed, I would go with that option.  You can take five drawers out of each map case and stack them on a pallet (15 drawers max) and wrap them with plastic wrap so they don’t shift in the truck.  The frames, bases, and tops can be carried out separately.  This will probably take a bit longer, but is easier on the movers and puts less stress on the map cases.  If you have a good crew of movers who have strong backs, moving the map cases intact (securing the maps with cardboard, taping the map case drawers shut, etc.), tipping them on end, and moving with a few four wheel flatbed dollies should work fine.  You can carry out the frames, bases and tops separately.  Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions.  Good luck with your move!

-Greg    

Gregory H. March

Associate Professor

Map & Geospatial Data Librarian  

University of Tennessee

236A Hodges Library

Knoxville, TN 37996

865-974-3878

From: Maps-L: Discussion Forum for Maps, Air Photo, Map Librarianship, GIS, etc. [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Harvey Thorleifson
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2014 9:06 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Moving a map library

Colleagues, I would appreciate advice on moving a map library.

We have about ~200 drawers in ~40 cabinets.

Do the drawers need to be emptied, and the drawers moved separate from the cases?

If so, I am in need of advice on how to move the maps.

I have some ideas, although tips from people who have done this will help. Thanks!

Harvey Thorleifson, Minnesota Geological Survey