2017 Charleston Library Conference

Mapping, data visualization, and geographic analytics are increasingly important in many research fields: social sciences, business, public health, environmental studies, history, etc. Each year, more research data becomes available and more vendors offer products serving these research needs. In this proposed session, business and geography librarians from two universities and an owner of a mapping, spatial analysis, and GIS software development services company will offer library and vendor perspectives. Topics will include an overview of the different types of data and platforms, selection issues for libraries, campus training and promotion needs, issues vendors face in acquiring third party data and licensing it to libraries, and the future of these tools. We will also share recommendations and best practices to libraries providing these tools and services for their campuses.