Visit to the New York Public Library's Map Division

On Thursday, March 20, Civitella Intern Freya Yost hosted a visit to the Lionel Pincus and Princess Firyal Map Division at the New York Public Library.  Freya, pictured at center above, is studying Information and Library Science at the Pratt Institute and works as a Page in the Map Division.  She welcomed the group with an introduction to the Library, the Division, and the resources they provide.

She then ushered everyone into the Map Reading Room, where they had an opportunity to view a dozen maps she had specially selected.  There were various maps of Italy and the Umbria region dating from the early 1600s through the mid-20th century.  Freya explained the different kinds of maps she had chosen, which included a war map from the period just prior to Italy's unification and maps of local geology and geography.  She also introduced several elements of cartography, such as the compass rose, cartouche, legends, and whimsy. 

This visit was planned in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Civitella Ranieri Center and Foundation.  More events will be held in both New York and Italy throughout the year, so please keep an eye to our website, Facebook page, blog, and emails for more information.  We hope to see you at one of the upcoming events.