Kelley Center: Maps

Welcome to Fondren Library online research guide on Maps!

Fondren Library's Kelley Center holds an extensive collection of over 50,000 print historical and modern maps, especially of Texas and the Houston area, to support teaching and research. Most are received through the US Federal Depository Library Program, with updates primarily in digital versions. It has also 1000+ mobile oil maps donated by Exxon Mobil.

Use this guide for help finding and using paper and digital maps. This research guide is created and maintained by Anna Xiong of Kelley Center for Government Information, Data, and Geospatial Services. Any comments, questions, suggestions, and requests, please email her via jax2@rice.edu.

 See also the History-Government Sources: Maps for additional information.

The Kelley Center paper maps are generally NOT available for checkout and can only be used within the library building. Users can book a space at Fondren Library to host events and utilize some of our non-circulating materials, such as maps. Exceptions can also be made on a case-by-case basis. If you need to use a specific map to support an event or classroom teaching, please contact the Government Information Coordinator Anna Xiong, jax2@rice.edu to request special permission. 

We have a lot of fantastic duplicate U.S. and foreign countries' maps available for free. Contact Anna Xiong, jax2@rice.edu to ask how you can get it! 

If you are interested in DIY Map Art, click the link below to find some related reference information and get inspired.

• Most of our tangible maps are searchable using Fondren Library online catalog. If you need help, feel free to contact 713.348.6212, jax2@rice.edu or govhelp@rice.edu
• To locate and retrieve physical maps and other related non GIS map service at Fondren:
  • Read the instruction information under the tab "How to find and access".
  • To make sure to get staff assistance, please schedule an appointment before your visit: 713.348.6212, jax2@rice.edu or govhelp@rice.edu
  • To plan your trip, please also read the information for Kelley Center visitors at https://library.rice.edu/content/kelley-center-visitors 
• ArcGIS Assistance
  • GIS/Data Center Home Page