Discover the Library’s Collection of Maps and Atlases In a New Online Exhibit

Written by Sara Williams, Reference Librarian, Arts & Special Collections, Downtown Main Library

The Library is home to an impressive collection of more than 2,200 maps and atlases, created in the 1800s through present day. Learn what's available and how to access these resources through Landscapes and Layers, an online exhibit from CHPL's Genealogy and Local History department.

Discover a Wide Assortment of Map Types

Whether you're a novice or an expert, the Library's historical maps connect you to Greater Cincinnati's past in fascinating ways. Visit the online exhibit to discover the kinds of maps available in the Library's collection and how to navigate them.

CHPL's collection includes historic Cincinnati area maps from the 19th and early 20th centuries and pre-1922 fire insurance maps that provide highly detailed street plans and building outlines.

The exhibit also showcases items available to view anytime, anywhere on CHPL's Digital Library - including city and county maps useful to genealogists and local history researchers. Through the exhibit, you can also:

• Test your knowledge of Greater Cincinnati history with the downloadable City of Cincinnati in 1938 Map Activity 
• Browse Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps to find out more about the history of a specific property, street or neighborhood
• Study a topographical map that charts the different elevations of Cincinnati
• See geologic maps that reveal thousands of years of rock formations that make up the state of Ohio

Then and Now

Compare the streets and landmarks of the past with with today's views using side-by-side interactive maps in the online exhibit. See how the locations have changed over the years by clicking and dragging sliders to compare old and new map views. The image below is not an active slider. View the exhibit to move the sliders.

Check Out More Online Exhibits from CHPL 

CHPL.org has several online exhibits highlighting interesting stories from Greater Cincinnati history and connecting you to CHPL's deep archive of historic materials. Check out online exhibits including the History of CHPL and Cincinnati’s Inclined Plane Railroads at CHPL.org/exhibits.   

Check out the Library's maps and atlases in person at the Downtown Main Library. See hours and transit directions.