A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a set of technological tools and data resources that enable the analysis of information based on geographic location. A GIS extends the functionality of a data set through the unique capabilities of mapping for visualizing and understanding information. While often associated with geography and engineering disciplines, GIS technology is increasingly being used in many fields including business/marketing, public administration, criminal justice and health sciences.

The Perry Library at Old Dominion University offers:

• assistance in locating and obtaining data for use with GIS.
• assistance in constructing maps built around common geographies including states, counties, metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs), census tracts and zip codes (check out some examples).
• books on GIS -- search the catalog for the subject: geographic information systems for a listing.
• workshops

Remember that GIS projects can take some time, so plan ahead. Documentation for ESRI software, including ArcView and ArcInfo, is available.