OK, so I like maps, but I also like putting a plug in for things that people don't expect us to have. You probably wouldn't be surprised to know that we have a variety of atlases and city maps, but there's lots more available.
If you are a hunter, hiker, mountain biker, equestrian, or other outdoorsy type, you probably know about Green Trails and USGS topographic maps. They can be pricey if you buy a lot of them. Many branches have Green Trails maps (some branches even check them out), and Kent and Bellevue house a complete set of Washington State USGS maps.
Taking a roadtrip? Maybe the scenic backroads route? KCLS checks out road atlases - US, individual states, Europe, and more. Last year I took a trip through Idaho and was very glad to have my Idaho Atlas and Gazetteer.
A number of branches stock FEMA Flood Insurance Rate maps, and soil surveys. It's always a good idea to call ahead and double check on an item you hope to find.
Finally, the Bellevue branch houses the more eclectic map collections: Sanborn Fire Insurance maps, Kroll's maps, DNR Public Lands maps, DNR Orthophoto maps, Wetlands Inventory maps, and Nautical Charts.
Happy trails!
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