EARLY AUSTRALIAN MAPS
The State Library of Queensland holds a significant collection of maps documenting the European discovery and exploration of Australia.
What is in the collection?
The historic Australian maps trace the earliest sightings of the continent by Europeans from the early 1570s, through to the first complete map by Matthew Flinders in 1814. The first map documenting the Aboriginal languages and tribal groups of the continent (Tindale 1940) adds to the diversity of the collection. The oldest map depicting a continent in the location of Australia is Pars Orbis 1572. Tasman, Dampier, Cook and Flinders are well represented, as well as the inland explorers such as Burke and Wills.
Did you know?
- These maps are acquired by auction, private and public sales and auctions or donation.
- They are part of the Historic Map Collection.
- Because of their rarity, they are encapsulated in Mylar plastic sheets and shelved flat in drawers.
How do I access items in this collection?
Access at the State Library of Queensland
- Find items in the collection via our One Search catalogue.
- Browse Levels 2, 3 and 4 or request items from onsite ‘Closed Access’ storage with your e-services card. If you order Closed Access items via the One Search catalogue ahead of your visit, items should be waiting for you when you arrive. You can order up to 3 days in advance. See delivery times for more information.
- Use our e-collections computers on level 2 to search the library’s catalogue; to search our databases for electronic journal, magazine and newspaper articles and to view images and manuscripts from our collection. These e-collections computers do not need to be booked and have no time limits on their use.
- You can also access our electronic resources via the State Library’s free wireless service if you have a laptop. Check our Info Guide on how to access wireless for details.
Access offsite
- You can access selected offsite databases to search for electronic journal, magazine and newspaper articles. You will be prompted to login with your e-services card or QPL account.
- Some State Library items are available for loan to other libraries. Contact your local library for information about interlibrary loan and copy services.
Search our collections:
Related links
- The Map Collection digital story
- More about the Map collection
- More about Historical Map collection
- Info Guide
External links
Last updated: 16th November 2011
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