Geographic and GIS Resources
Frank Donnelly, Geospatial Librarian
Geography is the study of the earth that includes both the physical and
human environment. For geographers, the focus of study is place, and
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are tools that are used to
study and analyze places in order to understand how objects or events are
geographically distributed and related. GIS
software functions like a geographical database package, where
data exists not only as a series of tables but also visually in the
form of map layers. GIS can be used to produce maps, perform
geographical analysis, and create new data. Geographic Information
Science is the study of both the theoretical and practical aspects of
GIS.
The Baruch Geoportal
The Baruch Geoportal is the library's repository for geospatial data. You can use it to download GIS data, find GIS resources on the web, download static maps and find maps on the web, and learn about GIS facilities and educational opportunities at Baruch. You can also access complete information about ESRI's Virtual Campus program for taking free online courses in ArcGIS.
In addition to the geoportal, the library also has a growing collection of books on GIS, cartography, and geography. Search CUNY+ for print resources. The USGS has thorough overview and introduction to GIS on their website.
Feel free to contact Frank Donnelly, the Newman Library's Geospatial Librarian, if you have any questions.