Osher Map Library and Smith Center for Cartographic Education

Osher Map Library is a wonderful place to feed your curiosity! Not only are the exhibits beautifully curated and displayed, but the staff and events they host are unrivaled. Serving the community from elementary age to those enjoying their golden years, OML really does have something for everyone- map nerd or not! If youve ever wanted help finding information on any range of topics, the folks here can help- if they dont have materials youre hunting for in their extensive archives, they sure will have resources and tips to help you find exactly what youre looking for :) Suggestions for interesting afternoons: fantasy maps (think lord of the rings & fairytales!), Maine history (TONS of it! MDI map pictured), nautical charts (one pictures), celestial materials (some of which comprise their oldest globes!), bringing me to their globe collection (!!!) which is stunning to say the least. Honestly, just reach out to them and schedule a research appointment about any interest of yours and see what materials they have! You wont be disappointed :)
Nov 18th, 2023

Such a great visit, Shawn was amazing with our young kids and kept them interested in the globes and maps. Really unique artifacts and a very knowledgeable staff!
Aug 26th, 2023

Worth a short visit if you love old maps and cartography. Not too far out of the city.
May 12th, 2022

Aug 5th, 2021

Shawn provided an excellent overview of the current exhibit. The personal conversations provided to our small group were appreciated. We learned a lot about the maps in display. I would recommend d visiting g the map.library.
Jul 22nd, 2021