Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How can I obtain a copy of a map in your collection?
Current members of the University of Manchester should contact the map librarian to arrange a time to view the map and discuss the various reproduction options available. External customers should contact the Heritage Imaging Team.
Where can I find historical maps of Manchester and the rest of the UK?
We have an excellent collection of historical maps of Manchester, please contact the map librarian to book an appointment to view maps that are relevant to your date and location. There is also a folded collection of historical maps of the UK available on open access in the Purple Ground area of the Main Library. Current students and staff of the University may also use the Digimap service to obtain digital historical maps of the UK - further information on Digimap can be found in the about the map collections page.
Our Online Map Collection also includes over 300 historical maps of Manchester, which are free to view online. These comprise maps from the University Library collection and maps from Manchester Archives and Local Studies (Manchester City Council).
Where can I find current maps of the UK?
We have a selection of Ordnance Survey folded Landranger maps (1:50,000) available in the Purple Ground Area of the Main Library. Current university members also have access to the Digimap service which offers large and small scale mapping of the UK, as well as the opportunity to customise and print maps.
Further information on Digimap can be found on the about the map collections page.
Alternatively, Ordnance Survey now makes some of its electronic mapping available to the public for free - filter by "OpenData" on the page linked.
Do you have maps of other countries?
Yes, we have mapping for many countries outside the UK. A catalogue search will identify most mapping outside the UK but most maps will have to be retrieved by a member of map specialist staff. Please contact the map librarian if you wish to view a map which is stated as being 'map consultation on request' to book an appointment. There are also many world and national Atlases which are available on open access in the Purple Ground area of the Main Library.
Do you have geological maps?
Yes, we have excellent coverage of the UK and also hold geological mapping for many other countries. Please contact the map librarian if you wish to consult any of the flat maps in the collection (usually identified as 'consultation on request'). Alternatively, there are a small number of folded geological maps in the Earth Sciences section in Purple Ground area on open access. You will also find accompanying UK geological memoirs in this section. Current University members can also access geological mapping from the Digimap service.
Further information on Digimap can be found on the about the map collections page.
I cannot make it to the library, can you suggest any good online map resources?
Try using our useful map websites page to find what you need. This lists the websites we use the most and includes current, historical, UK and world mapping.
Our Online Map Collection page also includes over 300 historical maps of Manchester, which are free to view online. These comprise maps from the University Library collection and maps from Manchester Archives and Local Studies (Manchester City Council).