Many of these books are located in the Map Research Room for reference use. The collection is arranged by geographical area using a numerical system, beginning with world maps and becoming more specific through regions and states. For Virginia, the maps are arranged by region, and the counties are placed under the region to which they belong. A limited subject file follows a chronological file in each section of the card catalog in the Map Research Room, and it is to one's advantage to check both files. Selected maps are now being entered into RLIN, a nationwide database.
Preservation is the primary concern in the management of the map collection.
Oversize materials are difficult to handle, and problems of excessive size and fragility are common to loose maps whose entire surfaces are exposed to light, temperature and humidity extremes. Maps are served in the Map Research Room one at a time. Only pencils can be used to take notes, and tracing is not permitted. Do not take notes on top of maps or any documents. Researchers must not place items on the map or lean on it.