Nova Scotia Street and Road Atlas

John D. Blackwell is director of the Research Grants Office at St.
Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, and the author of Canadian
Studies: A Guide to the Sources (http://www.
iccs-ciec.ca/blackwell.html).

Each year, thousands of visitors explore the historical landscape and
scenic beauty of “Canada’s Ocean Playground.” Although many
seasonal travellers and local residents undoubtedly rely on the latest
digital navigation systems, such as MapQuest or in-vehicle Global
Positioning Systems, the production and publication of a fine new
large-scale provincial atlas for drivers is a welcome and impressive
accomplishment.

The Nova Scotia Street and Road Atlas, which was first developed by
Interpretation Resources (Amherst, Nova Scotia) for provincial ambulance
dispatch, has been enhanced and revised for public use. It is
comprehensive and detailed, with sturdy coil binding, 389 full-colour
maps, and more than 25,000 street and road index entries. The atlas
covers locations in Nova Scotia, with maps of three different scales,
depending on development density. An easy-to-use map-referencing system
helps one find locations quickly.

Many users will, however, find the size and weight of this volume quite
cumbersome; it’s certainly not the sort of book that a lone driver
could comfortably hold and flip through en route. And, as most copies of
the atlas will likely see heavy use, the covers might have been more
sturdy. It is also a concern that the varying condition of local roads
is not indicated. One wonders, as well, about the currency of the street
maps (for instance, in the case of Antigonish, at least two important
newer streets are omitted). Those who require more topographical
details, smaller-scale maps, and a less unwieldy format, would be
well-advised to consult the 144-page Nova Scotia Atlas (2006).

Nevertheless, the strengths of this high-quality resource far outweigh
its weaknesses. Travellers, residents, businesses, government offices,
schools, and libraries will all find many uses for it. One looks forward
to a new, improved edition in future.