Introduction
Topographic (sometimes shortened to "topo") maps depict the rising and falling of the land with contour lines. The US Geological Survey (USGS) publishes topos for every state and territory. These maps also show cultural features (roads, buildings, developed areas) and physical features (rivers, streams, and lakes). Some of them maps also show vegetation. The largest scale US topographic maps are produced at a scale of 1:24,000 and cover an area 7.5' x 7.5' (one-eighth of a degree square). The USGS also produces intermediate-scale topographic at scales of 1:100,000 and 1:250,000 that cover 30' x 60' (one half of a degree by a degree) and 1° x 2° (one by two degrees), respectively. For more information on USGS topographic maps and topographic map symbols, consult the following USGS' web sites:
- Topographic Map Symbols (USS)Interpret the colors and shapes commonly found on USGS maps.
- U.S. Board on Geographic NamesWant to know the official name of a place or a feature? The U.S. BGN makes decisions and keeps track.
Topos at IU
The Wells Library collects topographic maps from around the world, with special emphasis on maps covering the state of Indiana. Most of these are in print and can be searched in IUCAT. EVGeocloud has access to digital topographic map series we have purchased. (Currently Zambia and Tajikistan)
The library receives current USGS maps through the Depository program and retains them over time, but most of these maps are in the ALF. For immediate access to USGS Topographic maps, see TopoView.
- The National Map (USGA)"The National Map is a collaborative effort among the USGS and other Federal, State, and local partners to improve and deliver topographic information for the Nation. It has many uses ranging from recreation to scientific analysis to emergency response."
- USGS StoreBuy or download (for free) topographic maps.
- EVGeoCloud
This link opens in a new window
Web-based platform that provides access to geospatial data.
Russian Military Topographic Maps
- Russian Military Topographic MapsThe bulk of Indiana University’s Russian Military Topographic Map Collection is made up of the Soviet Red Army topographic maps, which were produced for defense and economic planning. This collection came to Indiana University from the duplicate map room of the Library of Congress Map Collection in the early 1990s. These maps cover not only parts of Russia and Eastern Europe, but extend as far north as Scandinavia, as far west as Germany and the Netherlands, and as far south as Iran.
Topographic Maps of Africa
The Africa Index Map Project is an ongoing effort to create index maps for IU's collection of topographic map series covering the African continent. View the interactive index map to see which sheets are held at IU. This list is not comprehensive.
Special thanks to Mia Partlow and Jordan Blekking for their work on this project.
Other Topo Sources
- Topo Maps at the University of TexasScans of topo maps from around the world.