LibGuides: Microforms: Microfilm and Microfiche in the WSU Libraries: Home

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Terrell Library 120-D
Washington State University

Office Hours: (Spring, 2023): Click the "Schedule Appointment" link above to set up a Zoom appointment, or email me directly via the button (which I recommend).

Subjects: Criminal Justice, Government Information, Law, Political Science, Sociology, Sport Studies

Microforms FAQ

micofilm

What is a Microform?

This is a printed item that has been reduced to a size too small to be read by the unaided eye. Microfiche and Microfilm are types of Microforms and require the use of a Microform reader.

What is Microfiche?

Microfiche is a type of Microform which consists of a single sheet of plastic that can hold numerous copied pages. If an article or document is comprised of hundreds of pages, many Microfiche sheets may be needed.

What is Microfilm?

Microfilm is a type of Microfiche which resembles a large roll of camera film. A single Microfilm roll can hold many more pages than a Microfiche page.

Where are the Microforms and readers located?

Most microforms are in the Microforms Room on the 1st floor of the Holland Library http://libraries.wsu.edu/usered/tutorials/hatmapsstacks/1st.html. Microfilm/fiche readers are also available in the Animal Health Library.

Do I need special permission to use the readers?

No, feel free to use the readers on your own. Consult a reference librarian if you have any questions or problems.

Why Do We Still Use Microforms?

microform and microfiche lab at Holland Library WSU

According to the U.S. National Archives, which continues to microfilm material:

Microfilm is low cost
Production is standardized
The life expectancy of microfilm is hundreds of years
Microforms are easy and inexpensive to maintain

Digital information is:

Better for immediate access to information
Not standardized, keeps changing, and is unstable
Digital information has a high maintenance cost

More about Microfilm for preservation (The National Archives)
Links to other archival formats. Includes a link to a manual (in HTML and PDF): "The selection and preparation of records for publication on microfilm."