Getting on the map: Greek libraries and users’ modern geographical information needs

Abstract

Human life and activities (politics, environment, transports, economy etc) are related to a geographical location thus making geographic information inseparable from daily life of every citizen around the globe. Libraries, especially those of the western world, have developed those functions and services necessary to enable users to access and manage the essential for their education and research activity geographical information. The commitment of geographical libraries to the continuous improvement of their services is also reflected in their integration in similar scientific associations and collaborative structures. The presentation aims to communicate the "Geographical Libraries Group" as a response of Greek academic libraries to the users growing need for access to geographic information, both print and digital. So, the current presentation, after a short introduction to the Map/GIS Libraries in the western world, will focus on the reasons that led to Groups’ implementation and present its members. Greek Academic Geographical Libraries Group fundamental goals and purposes will be highlighted while the actions that have already been accomplished will be pointed out. Finally, some upcoming actions of the Group will be presented.