Finding Aerial Photography

Our Finding Aerial Photography page guides you through the use of our various tools.

Accessing Aerial Photography

Some of our aerial photographs have been scanned and are available through our FrameFinder tool.  Requests can be made through the tool to scan photographs that are not yet digital.  See Aerial Photography Scanning for more information.  Appointments may be made to see aerial photographs in person.  See Viewing Materials in Person on our Policies and Fees page.

Finding Maps and Atlases

Maps and atlases can be found through the Library’s catalog (UC Library Search).  

  • Go to UC Library Search
  • Use the ‘Advanced Search’ option and choose a Material Type of ‘Maps’ (for both maps and atlases) from the pull down menu.  
  • Add any relevant information and click ‘Search’.
  • Select a title to see the record for an item.
  • See the next section for accessing the map or atlas.

Note that only about 60% of the collection is cataloged and searchable.  If you don’t find what you need by searching the catalog, contact us.  Our staff can let you know if we have something that will help you.

Accessing Maps and Atlases

Most maps and atlases are located on the 3rd floor Ocean Side of the Library.  Access to the collection is by appointment only.  Email us at geospatial@library.ucsb.edu or call (805) 893-2779 to make an appointment.  There are also many atlases in the general collection that can be checked out.  

If you’ve identified a map or atlas through UC Library Search, you can request the item directly from the catalog record:

  • In the catalog record under ‘Access In Library’ and next to ‘Request Options’ click the link for Special Research Collections.
  • Log in to your Research Account, or create an account.
  • The request form will be pre-populated with information from the catalog record.
  • Add any notes or special requests, then click the Submit Request button.
  • Geospatial Collection reference staff will contact you within one or two business days to follow up on your request and schedule an appointment.
  • For our policies when visiting the collection in person, see Viewing Materials In Person on our Policies and Fees page. 

Finding and Accessing Geospatial Data

To search for geospatial data, see the DREAM Lab’s Spatial Data Resources page.  Access to physical materials is through the DREAM Lab on the second floor, Mountain Side of the Library. Visit the DREAM Lab website, email  dreamlab@library.ucsb.edu, or phone (805) 893-8946 for assistance.