The Library of Lost Maps by James Cheshire.

At the heart of University College London, just up the road from Stanfords, lies a long-forgotten map library packed with thousands of maps and atlases. After Professor James Cheshire stumbled upon it, he spent three years sifting through hundreds of dusty drawers to see what was there. He was stunned to uncover some of the most significant maps and atlases from the last two centuries - many of which had not seen the light of day for decades.

Join us for an extraordinary journey into this remarkable collection, which is also part of Stanford’s own rich history. Edward Stanford purchased some of his first map printing plates from the founders of University College London in the 1850s and, as the Map Library grew throughout the 20th century, it was Stanfords that supplied many of the maps.

James will reveal how these maps – and many more - have inspired groundbreaking scientific discoveries, from climate change models to the theory of plate tectonics. But this is not just a story of innovation and exploration. These same maps were also used to draw borders, divide empires, justify colonisation, and orchestrate war.

Beautifully illustrated throughout and brimming with astonishing discoveries, The Library of Lost Maps reveals why cartography really matters and how map-making has helped transform our understanding of the world around us.

About the author:

James Cheshire is Britain’s only Professor of Geographic Information and Cartography. A world-leading map maker, his cartographic creations have been enjoyed by millions. He is an elected fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences and has been recognised with many prestigious awards from the likes of the Royal Geographical Society and the British Cartographic Society. His co-authored book Atlas of the Invisible won the American Association of Geographer’s Globe Award. When he is not making, writing about, or teaching with maps, James spends his time scouring eBay for them in the hope that one day he’ll have a map library of his own.

The event will start promptly at 7.00pm.

Ticket Plus Book £30.00

Tickets £8

Includes glass of wine/soft drink

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Author talks are held in our basement which is fully accessible via a nearby lift. Please ask a member of staff who will accompany you.

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