Maptour Page 6
Maptour: The Printed Word 1752 – 1900
The Mechanical Arts


Click to enlarge

Map: Public Libraries, 1779-1891

Try This:

  • Keep open the map “Public Libraries, 1779-1891.”
  • Under LAYER CONTROLS, turn on the checkbox for "Mechanics’ Institutes 1828-1852.”

Notice ...

  • The term “Mechanics’ Institute” is not defined in the legend box.

Try This:

  • Click on the "Related Materials" drop-down menu and select Notes - “Text from the Atlas.”
  • Scroll to the heading “Public Libraries” and read about Mechanics’ Institutes.
  • Close the Notes pop-up box and return to the map.

Notice ...

  • The extent of the settled area without libraries in Québec (“Canada East”) demonstrates that the development of libraries there lagged far behind that of Ontario (“Canada West”).

Consider!

  • The tradition of spoken communication may be stronger among French-speaking Canadians; written communication may be stronger among English-speaking Canadians.
  • The sequence of “Collective Libraries 1779-1830,” “Mechanics’ Institutes 1828-1852,” and “Public Libraries 1891” demonstrates the continuing quest among Canadians for enhanced communication and record-keeping.