Cabinets of Curiosities - Mapping our world: a visit to the Borchert Map Library
Thu, Feb 12, 2026, 10am
S-76 Wilson Library
309 19th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Maps—visual representations of our universe—have been around for centuries, from early cave paintings to modern-day Google maps and more. Each depiction offers a particular perspective of our world, whether it’s a simple navigational map with roads or a complex, three-dimensional overlay of natural features. Maps serve as practical tools and sometimes works of art, and they are increasingly interactive.
UMRA’s Cabinets of Curiosity tour from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, will offer an inside look into the rich resources of the University Libraries John R. Borchert Map Library. Map Librarian Ryan Mattke will showcase the treasures and innovations of one of the largest map libraries in the U.S.
Attendees will have an opportunity to view an array of rare and thematic maps and aerial photography. The tour will also highlight the library’s award-winning digital mapping programs, which includes the Mapping Prejudice and Big Ten Geoportal projects.
Given space limitations, the group size is limited to 20 and the tour is currently full. Join the waitlist.
The Wilson Library Is located on the west bank of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus. Accessible parking is available nearby in the 19th Avenue Ramp and the 21st Avenue Ramp. Use the QR code on your UMRA membership card for discounted parking.
—Wendy Pradt Lougee, UMRA Program Committee
Upcoming Events
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10:30 a.m. check in; 10:45 boarding; cruise from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Join UMRA friends and colleagues for a summer cruise and lunch aboard the Paradise Destiny II on beautiful Lake Minnetonka. Paul Maravelas, sailor, historian, and author of The History of Big Island, Lake Minnetonka will join us to share stories from 200+ years of lake-dwellers. Come early or stay after the cruise to explore Excelsior, a charming small town on the big lake.
Ticket price includes lunch: chef's sandwich, garden salad, fruit, chips, and cookies. Coffee, iced tea, and lemonade are complimentary and there will be a cash bar for other beverages. A vegetarian sandwich can be selected during registration.
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UMF CEO John Morris
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