New Missing Maps Database
April 27, 2008
This message is being posted to several relevant discussion lists. The International Antiquarian Mapsellers Association (IAMA: www.antiquemapdealers.com) is pleased to announce the opening of our new Missing and Stolen Map Database: www.missingmaps.info .
There is no fee associated with the use of this database, and we sincerely hope that librarians, dealers and collectors will make use of this site. There are no current entries: those will depend on user participation.
A few things to note:
- It is possible to browse the maps which will eventually be entered in the database without registration and login.
- Accessing the "add map" (or related books, atlases, etc.) form will require initial registration with subsequent login to the site. Using this form to post a report is a two-step process: first preview, then submission for final review. Any submission will then be reviewed confidentially prior to "going live" in the database. This is to ensure adequacy of copy specific detail and accuracy of contact information. (Note: Please try to include as much of the requested detail as possible.)
- There is a check-box towards the bottom of the registration form to hide contact details from public view, should anonymity be required. Use of the contact form for an individual entry will automatically be sent to the contact and the administrator, to be sure no notification is lost.
- Image uploads are done via the "add map" form, and if too large are automatically resized to the maximum allowed in the database (1200 x 1200 pixel). Very large files, such as TIFFs, will be excluded. Only images of the actual stolen item(s) are acceptable. There is a contact link from the "add map" page for any questions.
- Initially image uploads must be directly from your computer hard-drive into the database. [We are working on a mechanism to allow entry of a URL connecting to an image (of the specific missing or stolen item) residing on a third party server, with upload then occurring from that outside server.]
We understand that there will be some questions about the process, and likely a few glitches, as this site evolves.
Please take a moment to view the acknowledgement page:
www.missingmaps.info/acknowledgements.htm . These are individuals and institutions who are not IAMA members who actively and openly endorsed this project during the early stages of development.
Joel Kovarsky
Email: tpm@theprimemeridian.com