Well-designed data visualizations make data-centered narratives more intuitively understood.
Because maps often include complex data that is represented using a variety of graphic methods, having a broad understanding of data visualization techniques may assist in creating a successful geospatial representation of data or in reading and interpreting data representations.
An introduction to data visualization, specifically types of graphs, can be found in the University Library’s LibGuide Visualize Your Data.
The University Library also maintains a LibGuide to Digital Approaches to Research with links to data visualization resources.
Below, a sampling of data visualization titles available through the Map Library along with some suggested websites.
Books in the Map Library
Data Visualization: Charts, Maps and Interactive Graphics by Robert Grant (2019)
Data Visualization for Design Thinking: Applied Mapping by Winifred E. Newman (2017)
Also available online through the Library’s catalog
Data Visualization in Society, Martin Engbretsen and Helen Kennedy, editors (2020)
Also available online through the Library’s catalog
The Secret Language of Maps: How to Tell Visual Stories with Data by Carissa Carter (2022)
Telling Stories with Maps: Lessons from a Lifetime of Creating Place-based Narratives by Allen Carroll (2025)
Thematic Cartography and Geovisualization by Terry Slocum et al., 4th edition (2023)
Organizations
Data Visualization Society
History
The Minard System: the Complete Statistical Graphics of Charles-Joseph Minard, from the Collection of the École Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées by Sandra Rendgen (2018)
Motley Roots of Data Visualization
Milestones in the History of Thematic Cartography
Blogs
Flowing Data
Infographics from Carbon Brief — climate-related visualizations