This message is to announce an important update to the Map, Data, and GIS Library (MDGL). Going forward, Brock Library will be providing the MDGL’s services and collections from the Gibson Library. This will make possible improvements such as better access to the collection and increased availability of specialist time to support research and instruction. The MDGL space in Mackenzie Chown will close. Brock Facilities Management is at work planning the conversion of that space to become labs for Engineering and other FMS programs.
Geospatial analysis techniques have been transformed over the past twenty years through digital maps and GIS software. Use of the physical map collection has dwindled steadily. Meanwhile budgetary challenges have made it difficult to maintain minimum staffing levels. The move to the by-appointment model (May 2025) revealed that the library could continue to offer all the services of the MDGL through staff based in the Gibson Library. This decision is consistent with patterns observed at other universities. Dedicated map library spaces at Yale and University of Birmingham closed in the past few years, with the collection redeployed to other units or libraries. In Canada, the University of Calgary stores only its highest use and geographically relevant materials on site and U of T moved their collection into storage.
Students and faculty will continue to have access to course-integrated instruction and workshops on GIS skills and mapping, one-on-one support with the library’s Map, GIS and Geospatial Data Specialist, and the distinctive collection of maps, atlases, gazetteers and air photos in physical and digital formats. The collections of the MDGL will benefit from improved access (Gibson is open much longer hours) and increased focus on collection development through the expertise of a specialized Collections Librarian. For students, Gibson offers a wider array of study space options including bookable individual and group study rooms.
If you have questions about this announcement, please contact University Librarian Nicole Nolan at [email protected].