{"id":11540,"date":"2025-09-25T17:05:11","date_gmt":"2025-09-25T17:05:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogschapman.wpenginepowered.com\/library\/2025\/09\/25\/magic-at-the-leatherby-libraries\/"},"modified":"2026-07-17T23:35:12","modified_gmt":"2026-07-17T23:35:12","slug":"magic-at-the-leatherby-libraries","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.chapman.edu\/library\/2025\/09\/25\/magic-at-the-leatherby-libraries\/","title":{"rendered":"MAGIC at the Leatherby Libraries"},"content":{"rendered":"

Maps and Geographic Information Systems (MAGIC) is a field of geography where researchers <\/span>collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data<\/span><\/a>. <\/span>Researchers, land-use planners, and scientists can use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to understand physical regions better and create more valuable maps and navigational products.
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Visit the MAGIC Alcove on the second floor of the Leatherby Libraries to find additional materials and MAGIC resources, including paper maps and print atlases.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Geographic information systems<\/span><\/a> (GIS) are spatial systems that create, analyze, and map data types. It integrates hardware, software, and data to take real-world locations and combine them with data to create an informational map. For example, we use GIS whenever we use Apple Maps on our phones to see specific buildings, locations, and street names!<\/span><\/p>\n

GIS’s primary purpose is to use mapped data to make more informed decisions. The visual and spatial view of data helps users understand patterns and relationships about information in a particular area. Wildfire<\/a> and earthquake maps are great examples as they provide times, locations, and severity of natural disasters to inform people about potential dangers, prepare accordingly, and make necessary evacuation or safety plans. <\/span><\/p>\n

MAGIC Resources at the Leatherby Libraries<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n

The MAGIC LibGuide<\/span><\/a> is a resource tool that can help with research and understanding GIS! Our librarians created this subject guide to help students find information, books, articles, and digital resources about geography and GIS.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Brand-New MAGIC Workshops & Instructional Videos<\/span><\/h3>\n

Our Digital Archives Technician, Brian Song, recently recorded multiple <\/span>videos<\/span><\/a> to help the Chapman University community better understand MAGIC and how they can use it in their research and academic journeys. Check out the links below to better understand GIS and MAGIC and how to use them to add depth to your research.<\/span><\/p>\n

Introduction to GIS Series<\/span><\/h3>\n