Map librarianship

Map librarianship

183 Reviews The Introduction in a concise overview of the history, completeness, and peculiarities of the censuses. The Appendix, Bibliography, and ...

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183

Reviews

The Introduction in a concise overview of the history, completeness, and peculiarities of the censuses. The Appendix, Bibliography, and County index provide information on the problems of mapping boundaries, sources used to produce the maps, and lists of all “present-day U.S. counties, and nearly all counties defunct or later renamed.” This is a well researched and organized reference tool: the most complete, if not the only one of its kind (Histon’cal U.S. County Outline Map Collection, 1840-1980 and Historical Atlas and Chronology of County Boundaries, 1788-1980 are similar in scope, but not nearly as complete). The guide, which fulfills its purpose exceptionally well, is essential for any map, genealogical, or large reference collection, or for any library that receives genealogy or census questions. *Jim Walsh is the Government Massachusetts 02155.

Publications

and Map Librarian,

Wessell Library,

Tufts University,

Medford,

Map Librarianship, 2nd ed., by Mary Larsgaard, Littleton, Colorado: Libraries Unlimited, 1986, 382 pages, $43.50 (U.S.), $52,50 (elsewhere), ISBN O-87287-537-7, LC86-21381.

Inc.,

Reviewed by Michael Dulka* Since its initial publication in 1978, Map Libmrianship has been the standard text in the field. The expanded second edition, like the first, “is intended to serve persons who deal with cartographic collections.” Because the work focuses on the theory, techniques, and practices of map librarianship, it may be used as a classroom text, a working manual, and a reference source. The information in the book parallels the steps a librarian would take in dealing with catographic materials. The longest chapterL‘Selection and Acquisitions’l-has received the most extensive revision. Attention is paid to not only maps but also other cartographic materials, such as remote sensing imagery. Important changes in the depository systems of U.S. government agencies have been incorporated into the text. The chapter on classification has changed little, while the chapter on cataloging has been significantly altered to reflect changes in the field due to AACR2 and the increased us of computerized cataloging. The remaining chapters cover storage, care, and repair; reference services; public relations and marketing; and education. Eliminated from this edition are chapters on administration and the philosophy of map librarianship. Extensive bibliographies and appendices comprise approximately one-third of the volume. Included in the appendices are examples of policies, forms, and a suggested course syllabus. The author has maintained a pleasant, informal writing style that creates a bond between herself and the reader. Most of the added text has made this a current state-of-the-art work, though some of the changes are little more than casual references to non-map cartographic materials, rather than in-depth discussions. Still, the text acts as a guide to the literature, which is the book’s strongest asset; the working librarian or student will find here the tools that am necessary for continued research. Map Librarianship continues to be the leading work of its kind. Its purchase is mandatory by any library with cartographic materials.

*klichael Dulka is the Map Librarian,

Dag HammarskjSld,

Library, United Nations, New York, New York 10017.

NTIS Privatization Study Responses to April 28,1986, Federal Register Notice Request for Public Comment, prepared by National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA: NTIS, June 1986, unpaginated, $10.00, NTIS order number: PB86-211240. Public Workshop to Discuss Alternatives

and Issues Associated with Privatization of the Na-