Hi Tom,
The mapping the library project started out (in my head) as simply using existing mapping tools to provide an interface to a map. The way the project went when we sat down and played for a day was slightly different, although still vaguely interesting :)
The thinking behind using Google Maps (which would apply to other 'mapping' interfaces - e.g. OpenLayers) was simply you get a set of tools that are designed to help navigation round a physical space. You can dispense with the geographic representation and simply use your own floorplan images. Whether this is the way to go probably depends on your requirements - but you would get functions like the ability to drop markers etc. 'for free' as it were, and also a well documented approach as the GMaps etc APIs come with good documentation.
However, more than once it has been suggested that this is a more complex approach than is required (I'm still not convinced by this - I think there are real strengths to this 'off the shelf' approach)
Some other bits and pieces that may be of interest:
My writeup of the day we worked on the Mapping the Library project http://www.meanboyfriend.com/overdue_ideas/2009/12/mashing-and-mapping/
A JISC funded project to look at producing 'item locator' service at the LSE http://findmylibrarybook.blogspot.com/
Owen
Owen Stephens
Owen Stephens Consulting
Web: http://www.ostephens.com
Email: [log in to unmask]
Telephone: 0121 288 6936
On 30 Jun 2010, at 13:24, Tom Vanmechelen wrote:
> We're considering to expand our service with a item locator. "Mapping the library" (http://mashedlibrary.com/wiki/index.php?title=Mapping_the_library) describes how to build this with Google maps. But is this really the way to go? Does anyone has any experience with this? Does anyone have some best practices for this kind of project knowing that we have about 20 buildings spread all over the town?
>
> Tom
>
> -------------------------------------------
> Tom Vanmechelen
>
> K.U.Leuven / LIBIS
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