Most people can read a map to get from point A to point B. But if you had a map filled with various data points, would you know what it was telling you? Using a geographic information system (GIS), a powerful mapping and analysis tool for spatial data, you may discover significant and surprising results.

This semester, the University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press is providing five GIS workshops that highlight GIS tools, like software and in-house experts, available to students, faculty and staff that will help them better understand, map and analyze data.

While the workshops build on what has been taught in the others, each workshop stands alone and can be taken individually.

Learn more and find links to register below:

Researching and Exporting Data with PolicyMap

Become familiar with the data-rich GIS tool PolicyMap and how it expresses the concept of census geography during this workshop from 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday, Feb. 28.

With access to more than 37,000 indicators, you will choose data from a wide range of geographies and explore how to make maps easily that correlate factors such as income, language, occupation or the percentage of unbanked households. Learn how to geocode addresses and place data on the map, identify and map areas meeting three data criteria and discover how to cite PolicyMap’s data and use its maps in research.

In the series of GIS workshops, this one is the most accessible for those new to GIS tools.

Getting Started with ArcGIS Online

With a focus on the cloud-based ArcGIS Online mapping platform, this workshop from 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday, March 7, will teach you how to make a map online, easily add data to it, then share it widely.

You will become familiar with the concept of data layers, a key concept used in GIS; learn how to geocode addresses for data points; and understand how cartographic principles apply to creating maps that present data clearly and fairly. This workshop is cosponsored by UD’s IT Client Support and Services.

Creating and Sharing Your Data with ArcGIS Online Story Maps

You will be introduced to Story Maps, which allows you to use cloud-based mapping to combine maps with images and other multimedia, during this workshop from 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday, March 14.

Learn how to author a Story Map by selecting the appropriate template for your content, creating maps using ArcGIS Online and tying content together in an online Story Map to tell your story.

Getting Started with ArcGIS for Desktop I

Become familiar with the common tasks in ArcGIS, a widely used platform in research institutions and all levels of government, during this workshop from 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday, April 4.

Explore the concept of data layers as well as symbolizing, labeling and making a basic map in the ArcGIS ArcMap application. Export high-quality map images for publication for using this GIS tool, which is available in several labs across campus and allows you to map and analyze data sets. This workshop is cosponsored by UD’s IT Client Support and Services.

Please note: This workshop takes place in Smith Hall, Room 010.

Getting Started with ArcGIS for Desktop II

Build on what you have learned throughout this series of GIS workshops during this workshop from 9 a.m.-noon, Wednesday, April 11.

In this second ArcGIS for Desktop workshop, you will continue working with geospatial data layers and build your understanding of different GIS data formats. You will learn techniques for selecting and editing geospatial features on the map. Additionally, you will start working with geoprocessing tools to run geospatial analysis. This workshop is cosponsored by UD’s IT Client Support and Services.

Please note: This workshop takes place in Smith Hall, Room 010.

While workshops are free of charge, registration is required as seating is limited. These workshops are open to all UD students, faculty and staff.

If you are interested in a workshop but can’t attend, check out the selection of recorded workshops from recent semesters to see if a similar topic is available.

If you have questions regarding workshops, please call 302-831-2432 or email lib-workshops@udel.edu.

Note: All Morris Library visitors need photo identification to enter. Visitors with UD ONEcards can use those at the turnstiles for easy access to the Library. If you do not have a UD ONEcard, you will need a state-issued ID (a driver’s license, a government-issued or school-issued photo ID, etc.) to enter.