When You Need a Map That Predates Satellites
The Borchert Map Library is the University of Minnesota's dedicated home for geospatial data that doesn't come from a satellite or a modern survey. Historical maps, plat records, and archival aerial photography, all curated by library staff.
Most datasets mentioned on this website are built for current-conditions analysis. The Borchert Map Library is built for the opposite: historical scanned maps and plat records that let researchers establish a baseline decades or more in the past, plus access to licensed databases containing thousands of geospatial layers and tools like the Big Ten Academic Alliance Geoportal for finding data beyond what any single university holds.
Unlocking Decades of Historical & Regional Spatial Data
A Deeper Historical Record Than Anywhere Else on This Page
While most U-Spatial datasets track recent change, the Borchert Map Library holds historical maps, plat records, and aerial photography that stretch back decades further, giving research a genuine "before" to compare against.
One Gateway, Thousands of Layers
Beyond its own physical and digital holdings, the library provides access to licensed databases containing thousands of additional geospatial layers — far more than could ever be listed individually.
Search Beyond Minnesota
The Big Ten Academic Alliance Geoportal lets you search geospatial data held across Big Ten member institutions, extending your search well past what any single university holds.
Getting Access
Access varies by resource. Some materials are freely browsable online, while others require a library visit or licensed database access available to the UMN community.
Steps
- Visit the Borchert Map Library's website to browse available collections.
- For licensed databases or physical archival materials, contact library staff directly.
Not sure where to start? Contact the U-Spatial Help Desk for assistance.
Data Resources
Big Ten Academic Alliance Geoportal
Search geospatial data across Big Ten member institutions.
Access BTAA Geoportal Data →Geospatial Data Resources
The Library’s recommended geospatial data resources.
Read the Geospatial Data Library Guide →Contact the Borchert Map Library
Email with questions or make an appointment to visit the Map Library.
Get Personalised Support →Borchert Map Library FAQs
Quick answers to what people ask us most about this collection.
What kinds of materials does the library hold?
Historical maps, plat maps, aerial photographs, and licensed databases.
The Borchert Map Library curates historical scanned maps, plat maps, archival aerial photography, and access to licensed databases containing thousands of geospatial layers.
Do I need to visit in person?
Depends on the material.
Some collections are accessible online, while historical physical materials or certain licensed databases may require a library visit or staff assistance.
What is the Big Ten Academic Alliance Geoportal?
A shared search tool across Big Ten university data collections.
The BTAA Geoportal is a discovery tool that lets you search geospatial data held across Big Ten member institutions, useful when U-Spatial's own resources or the Borchert Library don't have what you need.
Is this a good resource for historical research?
Yes — it's the library's core strength!
If your project needs a historical baseline (a plat map from decades ago, or aerial photography predating satellite imagery), the Borchert Map Library is often the best starting point at the University.
What It Costs
Free for the UMN Community
Access to the Borchert Map Library's collections, staff guidance, and licensed geospatial databases is free for University of Minnesota students, faculty, and staff.
Costs Beyond the University
Many of the library's licensed databases are restricted to the University of Minnesota community under the library's own subscription agreements. Some materials, like publicly digitized historical maps, may be freely viewable by anyone. For licensed content, those outside the University should check with their own institution's library or contact Borchert Map Library staff directly to ask about visiting access.
Ready to Explore Historical and Archival Data?
Start with the Borchert Map Library's collections, or reach out to staff for guidance.