client:
what we did:
when:
the Norman B. Leventhal Map Center at the Boston Public Library
Website and Database design
Sept 2006 to March 2008
In 2006, Sourcelab was commissioned to create the Norman B. Leventhal Map Center at the Boston Public Library website. Our work centered on creating a scalable database for cataloging and viewing digitized maps, re-envisioning physical map exhibits into immersive online tours and designing the map center's visual ID.
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Central to the website's success is the ability to view detailed historic maps in high-detail. We customized the interactive controls of the Zoomify plugin making it possible to explore the maps in an immersive and seamless interface. The map viewer integrates historical information (meta data) and the ability to view the maps full screen, eliminating all extraneous interface elements.
In the online exhibit Journeys of the Imagination, we brought to life a static timeline from the physical exhibit, and adapted it into an interactive piece that beautifully parallels the advancement of cartography with major historical events of the past 500 years.
New features of the website included a rich set of educational materials with lesson plans, and the Map of the Month and Maps in the News features. We also designed the website to allow for seamless growth as additional maps are digitized and added to the site.
