Old maps online: finding and referencing historical mapping as a platform for research and teaching

Old Maps Online is an online search tool for historical maps. It uniquely draws together map collections from libraries around the world into a single, easy to use search interface. Using cutting edge technology the user searches for old maps by location, narrowed by date, rather than through more traditional catalogue listings. Following a successful early launch in February 2012 its popularity has grown continuously. We have delivered large benefits to end users, but this project, and the two conferences it organized, have also succeeded in raising awareness of the importance of spatial metadata for historical maps within the libraries world.