For more general information about maps and the map collection at the University of Pittsburgh, see:

Topographic maps use contour lines to show the shape and elevation of the land. Typically, they also show natural features such as mountains, valleys, lakes and rivers, and humanly-made features such as roads, boundaries, railroad routes, and major buildings. Topographic maps are commonly used for information about terrain, as well as for geographic detail.

For more information about topographic maps, see: