StoryMapJS is a visual timeline tool made available through Northwestern University’s Knightlab. This program is an open-source tool that helps you create and tell stories through maps and images. StoryMapJS is great for projects where you need to tell a story or talk about issues that are centered around a certain location or area over time.
Quick Facts #
- Price: Free
- Platforms: Web
- Recommended For: Beginners
- Where to Access: storymap.knightlab.com. You will be asked to sign in with your Google account.
Things to Know #
To publish your StoryMap on a WordPress website, go to the “Share” button on the top far right corner of the StoryMap creation page. From there you will copy the Embed Code and paste it into the code/text editor on the page or post you want to embed the map on. In WordPress, it is best to use the Custom HTML block instead of the Embed block.
Knightlab recommends not going over 20 slides per StoryMap. More slides can be overwhelming or confusing for your audience.
Storymaps can be used for more than just telling a story! They can also be used to map out multiple examples or locations of something, such as Major League Ballparks, or every Hard Rock Cafe!
Examples of other Storymaps can be found on StoryMapJS
Getting Started Guides #
StoryMap Guide – Knightlab’s guide on how to create StoryMaps; including tips, tricks, examples, and more.
Video: Introduction to StoryMapJS – A YouTube video serving as an introduction to StoryMapJS.
Want More Help? #
- Book an appointment with a consultant at the DKC. We would love to help you with your mapping and timeline projects!
- Check out our Getting Started with Mapping/Timeline Tools guide for some additional tips and tricks and common mistakes.
Reviewed by Abby Firestone 06/05/26