The map as an interface

Maps are often overlooked as an information source, but these documents are a valuable resource for library users.  It can be argued that everything has a location and therefore ‘a geography’; we know that everything happens somewhere.  While maps, in and of themselves, can contain a wealth of data, they can also form the interface to tremendous volumes of information that is referenced by location.  Within resources such as Google Earth, the information available to the user is simply incredible, and not just for spying to see what your neighbours have in their backyard.

Google Earth can be downloaded to your computer.  It places satellite images and aerial photographs along with the power and utility of maps into the hands of everyday computer users.  However, there are limitations that must be considered.  First and foremost, be aware of what you’re looking at.  Consider the date of the imagery and it’s source.  Many fall into the trap of thinking that because it is image-based (including satellite data) that the image is instantaneous or near real-time.  Not so; some of the data is relatively recent, but more of it is a little dated.  Google strives to update its imagery within approximately three years, but they are at the mercy of governments and other agencies that actually collect this information; so what they’re seeking may not be available.  Remember to look to the lower left corner of the image window for the date of the images.  Also, one must be careful of the annotations that are added to the imagery.  Again, some feel that because a lot of the information is fed from satellite imagery, that it has to be correct; again, not so.  Remember that annotations and boundary lines are added by individuals that retrieve this information from a variety of sources.  So, just because it appears on Google Earth doesn’t necessarily mean it’s correct.  I had an interesting discussion with a friend of mine who informed me that the name of the street where I live was different than what city officials, street signs, and I thought it to be – because the GPS and Google told him what it was.  His stance was that the satellite had to be correct!  The information he was referencing didn’t come from a satellite.

Within Google Earth, have a look beyond the great images.  Switch on some of the gallery sources like Street View or 360Cities to learn more about an area, or for a quick visit without actually leaving your home.  Learn more about social concerns such as the Crisis in Darfur, the Fair-trade Initiatives and see the areas that are actually affected.  Dive on a wreck with a team of experts or get really adventurous and visit the Moon, or even Mars.  Check it out, it’s worth the exploration.