With the purchase of a large-format scanner in early 2012, the McMaster University Library’s Lloyd Reeds Map Collection embarked on a self-supported digitization program that aimed to increase access to and use of its special and local historical collections. Through the dedicated work of staff and students during the past five years, over 7500 maps, plans, and aerial photos have been digitized, and nearly 10000 total items have been made discoverable, and freely and openly accessible through the Library’s Digital Archive <http://digitalarchive.mcmaster.ca/maps>. As the digitization program approaches significant duration- and size-related milestones, it presents an opportunity to reflect on its successes, challenges, and lessons learned, as well as discuss the broader questions that will direct its future development. Through this talk, we aim to explore the value of accessible, digitized map collections, while simultaneously critically assessing their place alongside physical materials in research, teaching, and public engagement.