Interactive Map of Science Fiction Bookshops
January 4th, 2007 by Alan Chudnow
I happen to run across a very nifty new Web service called Platial (it rhymes with “spatial”), that allows you to create interactive maps which you can place on your website or blog. Once you set up a map you can add location pointers along with notes, pictures and video for any place that has an address the system recognizes, alternatively you can enter a latitude and longitude . Each map can be left “open” so that others can add locations or be locked so only the owner can make additions.
Each “Place” you add creates it’s own blog-like comment stream so visitors can add their thoughts. The comments are moderated for spam control so you must approve each incoming comment.
The Platial web site is a full community aggregate with all the expected features of buddy lists, searchable tag words, internal email and personal profiles. The site supports imports from Flickr and YouTube so pictures and video are easy to add to the blog of any particular Place.
The company is just over a year old and claims that over 15,000 maps have been created by it’s members.
I’ve started a map marking bookstores and sellers that feature an excellent selection of science fiction, fantasy or horror on the Collecting SF Books site. Use the button on the sidebar to add your favorite bookshops!
