Pearls of the Antilles: Printed Maps of Caribbean Islands

Few people would argue that Caribbean islands have not played pivotal roles in American history.  From Columbus’ discoveries to the U.S. Guantanamo Bay prison debate, events on islands of the West Indies have impacted our history.  While most of these islands are not that distant, our personal knowledge of them is often scant.  With the help of old maps, there are interesting facts to learn and more importantly, connections for us to make. Old printed maps of the Caribbean islands depict not only the geography of the islands but also reflect many of the themes of Caribbean (and American) history as well as cartographic history. 

The maps incorporate many of the themes of cartographic history found in maps of other geographical areas, from technical developments to increasing diversification in types of maps, and from leading “national schools” in certain time periods to such themes as the growth of a tourist map industry.

Free. October 1, 2012 through February 9, 2013. Special Collections, Sixth floor, Central Library.

India Unveiled: The Photography of Robert Arnett

35 stunning photographs which highlight the diversity of India and its various regions. Based upon Arnett’s book of the same name, which has received five awards, including the prestigious Benjamin Franklin award and the Independent Publisher Book Awards, the exhibit is an excellent multicultural tool for promoting understanding and harmony.

Free. Through January 5, 2013. Parlor, Sixth floor, Central Library.