The Map Collection, located in the Jerry Crail Johnson Earth Sciences & Map Library, consists of an estimated 200,000 maps, over 3,000 atlases and geographic reference books, and more than 25,000 Colorado historical aerial photographs covering a broad range of subject areas, including geography, geology, history, architecture/urban planning, environmental studies, genealogy, travel and recreation.

A regional depository of the Federal Depository Library Program, we house the maps received from agencies such as USGS, BLM, U.S. Forest Service, Department of Transportation, NGA (formerly NIMA, DMA, and AMS) and CIA. 

Most Map Collection materials can be checked out (information about visiting and using our collections). We offer research guides, tours and in-person and virtual instruction. For more information or general inquiries, please contact us at rad@colorado.edu.

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Finding materials in the Map Collection

Find atlases, books, and most maps by searching the library catalog, or browse uncataloged maps by geographic area downstairs in the Earth Sciences & Map Library. Get started with our research guides.

Search the Library Catalog Finding Historical Maps Finding Digital Maps

Map Collection highlights

Colorado Historical Maps

Historical maps from the origins of the Territory of Colorado through the early twentieth century, with a focus on the city of Boulder and other towns in Boulder County.

Historical Aerial Photographs of Colorado

More than 25,000 print aerials extending through the 1970s, including approximately 4,700 digitized aerial photographs of Colorado, taken by the U.S. Forest Service in the years from 1938 to 1947.

Mining Maps of Colorado

Print maps (some digitized) of various mines, lodes, and claims in Colorado from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. 

Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Collection

The most complete collection of Sanborn maps of Colorado outside of the Library of Congress. Two-thirds of these are digitized.

United States Geological Survey Maps

We hold, in print, the entire 7.5 minute topographic map series as well as the 1:100,000 and 1:250,000 scale topographic series, thematic (geologic) maps, and historical maps. 

Map Librarians

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Naomi Heiser
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Ilene Raynes

Hours, Location and Contact Information

Map Collection
Earth Sciences & Map Library, Lower Level
Benson Earth Sciences Building
2200 Colorado Avenue
Boulder, CO 80309

 (303) 492-7578
rad@colorado.edu

Rare & Distinctive Collections: Information for researchers & visitors

Today's hours for the Earth Sciences & Map Library

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 Earth Sciences and Map Library Floor Plans
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