Map Request Information

Overview

The Alabama Maps digital archive and website is managed by University Libraries at the University of Alabama. University Libraries is committed to processing, preserving, and making available digitized historical maps, aerial photography, and other geographic resources that support the teaching and research missions of The University of Alabama. The specific protocols and procedures listed below are created to fulfill these objectives.

Any questions can be directed to Alabama Maps at alabama.maps@ua.edu.

Please allow 7-14 business days to process map and aerial photograph requests.

Access

University Libraries is committed to maintaining the Alabama Maps digital archive and website, providing access to associated map resources in accordance with legal requirements, privacy considerations, donor agreements, and institutional policies. The Alabama Maps website is constructed as an index and finding aid for your convenience.

At this time, we are not able to provide access to the physical map collection, though this may change in the future.

All map requests will be delivered as digital file downloads, as the University Libraries is unable to provide large format printing.

Please allow 7-14 business days for us to process your request.

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Personal, Teaching, or Research Use

For personal, classroom, or research use, you may request map files by contacting the map librarian directly at alabama.maps@ua.edu.

Note: this process may move to an online request form in the future.

Most personal and research requests are provided at no cost.

However, large or complex requests - such as large batches, previously unscanned images, or extensive preparation - may incur a processing fee.

If a fee applies, you will be asked to submit your request through the Special Collections Request System, where a quote will be provided before work begins.

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Commercial or Publication Use

Users are required to secure prior written permission from the copyright holder and Alabama Maps before using images in publications, presentations, for commercial use, or reproduction, in print or digital format.

When permission is granted, please credit the images as "Courtesy of The University of Alabama Libraries."

To request permission, please fill out the "Application to Publish with Image Request" form through our Special Collections Request System.

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The Map Library is unable to provide verification, certification, or expert validation of map images for use in legal or court proceedings. Requests for maps intended for use in the court of law must be submitted through the Special Collections Request System, where an estimate will be provided for approval before processing.

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Researchers are responsible for using digital materials available through Alabama Maps in conformity with United States copyright law as well as any institutional policies accompanying the materials. While copyright has elapsed for some of the original maps, photos, and publications available through Alabama Maps, the digital scans of these materials are the exclusive property of University Libraries (unless otherwise noted).

For more information about copyright policy, please visit: https://www.ua.edu/copyright/.

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Disclaimer

Reproduction for research purposes is permitted, and we reserve the right to decline photographic reproduction and digitization orders for collections of materials due to copyright, confidentiality, or condition.

We reserve the right to limit the use of our collections for commercial purposes. Formal permission is required for any commercial use or publishing/broadcasting for commercial or non-commercial purposes.

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Reference Protocols

University Libraries is committed to providing the best possible service to all its patrons. We prefer to receive reference requests via email to alabama.maps@ua.edu. We do, however, also take questions over the telephone at (205) 348-1096.

When calling or writing, please provide your contact information, if you have an affiliation with The University of Alabama, and a detailed explanation of your question.

Questions that are deemed "research" - those that require more time or effort than we can reasonably make - will be declined or referred. We respond to reference requests in the order that they are received. Please keep in mind that we receive numerous requests, and we have limited staffing who work in this area. We appreciate your patience.

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Policies and Procedures

All map requests are subject to University Libraries Special Collection policies and procedures.

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