Digitization of Geographic Maps

Abstract

By the end of 20th century, digitizations of maps have become widespread in the libraries worldwide and recently also in libraries of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In addition to cartographic materials, we also receive maps and atlases in digital form (microfilms, floppy disks and CDs). Experiences have showed that this is the best way of preserving the old cartographic material which is a part of national heritage of each country. Before process of digitization of old geographic maps begins, few problems must be solved out (financial, professional, technical, etc.). National and University Library of BIH owns old geographic maps which show Bosnia and Herzegovina from 16th to 19th century. During the war a great number of maps was destroyed and some were damaged. When the location and equipment for the laboratory for preservation of material were provided, we conducted primary preservation of old BIH maps. By the end of the last year, we have started saving maps to CDs. Ten oldest and the most precious maps (16th-18th c.) were saved to CDs. Thus, we protected the originals from further defects which would have incurred due to users' lending. Soon, we will enlarge this project to 30 old maps, and our intention is to make them available on the Internet. Thus, a part of our cultural heritage would be available to our users and to the general public.