The Map Collection Index covers a core collection of about 5,000 maps. The core collection consists of manuscript and printed maps and photocopies of general historical maps and special groups of maps such as Board of Public Works maps, Civil War maps, and Chesapeake and Ohio Company railroad maps. The U.S.G.S. topographic maps and the collection of drawings and plans are not covered by this index. This is not an alphabetic index.
General arrangement is by larger geographic area followed by smaller geographic areas.
Virginia maps are arranged by regions of the state followed by political subdivisions within each region. Arrangement is east to west across the state or region. Maps within the same geographic area are arranged by date followed by a limited subject file pertaining to that area. See Detailed Arrangement below. Cards contain a description of the map and the classification number of the map.