Hi Laurie:  I just read your note and thought I would pass along a 
couple of quick comments. I wonder if in this instance there is a need 
to distinguish between the potential end of microfilm cameras and the 
end of microfilm as a storage medium.  While from what I understand film 
cameras are indeed being phased out, images of documents that are 
captured with digital cameras can still be output into film or fiche if 
desired (shades of the good old COM method), in addition to CD.  I 
believe that some service bureaus are doing this now and I would not be 
surprised if some clients don't even realize that their microfilm images 
are not being taken with a traditional film camera.  Thus, while I do 
not profess to be an expert on the intricacies of microfilming, I don't 
think we are on the brink of losing access to microfilm itself as a long 
term archival preservation medium.  Regards, Robin

-- 

Robin Keirstead
University Archivist
Archives and Research Collections Centre
(Office: WL M9B)
The University of Western Ontario
London Ontario N6A 3K7

Tel:  (519) 661-2111 x87289
Fax:  (519) 850-2979
E-Mail:  [log in to unmask] 




Laurie McBeth wrote:
> I've had a patron ask a question about microfilming, as she is looking
> to have some record books microfilmed,  and I thought I would pass it
> along and see what others in the archives community think.  She recently
> read an article entitled "The era of microfilm is over" in which it
> states that last manufacturers of microfilm cameras (Canon & Kodak)
> ceased production 3 years ago and will supply parts for 4 more years
> only. 
>  
> So her question is:  What should they do for long-term archival
> preservation of their record books, and what should she recommended to
> other groups as the best way to preserve their books.  What is the
> standard now for preservation if the era of microfilm is over?  Is the
> age of microfilm really over?
>  
> Any thoughts/comments would be appreciated!
>  
> Thanks!
>  
> Laurie
>  
> Laurie McBeth 
> Lambton Room Historian 
> 787 Broadway St. Box 3100
> Wyoming, ON N0N 1T0
> Tel: (519) 845-3324 ext 434
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