Computer and Library Learning (Archived)

I remember the sense of amazement I felt when I tried Google Map Street View for the first time.

The idea of the Street View Car travelling around everywhere to capture street imagery is fascinating!

And it all started back in 2007. Was it only 2007, Google Maps Street View first started? Using Google Maps Street View has seamlessly entered into my everyday life. When I wanted to know what my cousin’s new house in London, Ontario looks like. I used Google Maps Street View. When I am planning a vacation and I want to scope out the surroundings of the hotel. I use Google Maps Street View. You kind of get the idea.  

There are many uses for Google Maps Street View, and now there is one more. Google Maps Street View recently introduced a new feature. Curious to know what the world (or at least parts of the world) looked like back in 2007? And how it has changed since 2007? Well now it is possible, using Google Maps Street View.

When you are in the Google Maps Street View mode, look for the little timer/clock icon on the upper left hand corner. When you click on the timer/clock icon, it will bring up a visual timeline. This visual timeline will allow you to glimpse back at what the world looked like since 2007.

As you may or may not know, the Toronto Reference Library has been undergoing a large revitalization project. And the new timeline feature from Google Maps was able to track some of Toronto Reference Library’s amazing transformation.

Through this feature, you are able to view Toronto Reference Library located at 789 Yonge Street in September 2007, May 2009, September 2011, April 2012 and the most recent visual May 2013.

It is not just the Toronto Reference Library, but Toronto's landscape in general has changed significantly throughout the years. It is fascinating to be able to look back to see how it has changed. So, if you have not had the opportunity to explore this new Google Map feature, be sure to check it out!

And if you are new to Google, the Toronto Public Library offers a free Computer and Library Training class Web Basics II that takes a look at some of Google's features, including a small introduction to Google Maps. Be sure to check out one of these free classes or Download Web Basics II participant's package.