Did you know that you can do more with Google Maps than searching for addresses and getting directions? By creating a Google account and using the My Maps feature, you can create your own custom maps.

This is a step up from Google Maps, allowing you to import GIS datasets (.kmz and .kml files). You can either download this free application to your desktop or launch it using a Chrome browser. The desktop version has a variety of tools available, including the Time Machine slider that lets you view aerial imagery from the past few decades, depending on location. New features and tools are being added to the browser version regularly.

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is an open source, community driven mapping project.

Free accounts are available but we recommend using an account connected to the Skidmore institutional account (contact the GIS Center for access). ArcGIS Online is a true web based GIS. Create maps, scenes, apps, conduct analyses and display data online. Then share your map using the ready made, customizable web apps.

Quantum GIS is a free and open source GIS desktop application. Functionality is similar to that of ArcGIS and a great alternative for those without access to an expensive ArcGIS license.

The ArcGIS suite of applications for desktop is used by all kinds of industries and disciplines for geospatial work. Users can manipulate data, perform spatial analyses, model, process images, work in 3D, and more. ArcMap 10.7 can be found on PCs all over campus, including all the public computers in the Library.

Data alone is not enough. Use these tools from NOAA's Office of Coastal Management to turn data into helpful information.

Free USGS topo maps! Use CalTopo for collaborative trip planning, detailed elevation profiles and terrain analysis, printing geospatial PDFs, and exporting maps to your smartphone as KMZ or MBTiles files.