Preservation of Archival Mining Maps: Increasing Access and Safety

Since June of 2007, the University of Pittsburgh has been engaged in a partnership to preserve the mining heritage of Western Pennsylvania. \ud \ud The goal of this project is to conserve and digitize mining maps donated to the University by CONSOL Energy, Inc. So far, 400 maps have undergone conservation treatment in the Preservation Department of the University Library System. Once repaired, the maps are digitized and using GIS software the DEP matches surface features drawn on the map to the same features on aerial photography and USGS topography maps.\ud \ud Our presentation will highlight how increased access to previously inaccessible information has benefitted the safety of miners, the public and the environment.\u