We are about to move several map cabinets from a branch library into our main collection. What we've done in the past is remove the drawers, making sure to note which drawers go in each slot. These cabinets are not standardized and sometimes the stopping mechanisms don't match up... it's not fun when a runaway drawer lands on your foot. We are having our preservation department make a foam board inset to go on top of each map drawer, then they're being wrapped with stretch wrap. Even still, it's really important that the drawers aren't turned sideways. This seems obvious to us map-folks, but if you're hiring outside movers they might not realize that they need to keep the drawers flat, or else all the maps will slide to the bottom and get crunched. 

I will echo Daniel and say that in my opinion, the two most important things to do are: 
- label the drawers and the cabinet. I normally use an A1, A2, etc. scheme with each cabinet getting a different letter.
- remove the drawers and keep them flat. 

If you can, it's also helpful to do some shelve reading before attempting a move to make sure that none of the drawers are overstuffed or out of order. 

Good luck! 
-
Theresa Quill
GIS Visiting Librarian 
Indiana University Bloomington

On Fri, Dec 26, 2014 at 12:13 PM, Angela R Cope <[log in to unmask]> wrote:


From: Bertuca, David <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2014 9:44 AM
To: Maps-L: Discussion Forum for Maps, Air Photo, Map Librarianship, GIS, etc.
Subject: RE: Moving a map library
 
I am doing this right now. We're going to move about 120 cabinets. 
You must remove drawers before trying to move because you will damage the cabinets if you don't. They are too heavy when full and the cabinet design does not support any movement. 
I can provide more on Monday. I am off to enjoy not moving today.

Dave Bertuca


Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone


-------- Original message --------
From: Harvey Thorleifson
Date:12/26/2014 9:25 AM (GMT-05:00)
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




--
Theresa Quill
Map/GIS Coordinator, Herman B Wells Library
MLS Candidate, School of Library and Information Science
Indiana University