For clients managing large volumes of documents, microfilm provides an efficient way to store information without taking up extensive physical space. Thousands of pages can be condensed into a single reel, making it ideal for law firms, government agencies, and historical societies that require access to large collections in a compact format.
1. Define Your Research Goals: Microfilm can be time-consuming without direction, so define your goal early; Successful microfilm research begins with preparation: knowing the date, article title, publication name, or topic you're after helps narrow your focus and avoid aimless scrolling.
2. Using Indexes and Finding Aids:
Before heading to the microfilm machine, consult your library’s catalog or databases to determine which reels contain the material you need—be sure to note key details such as call numbers, publication titles, and date ranges. A librarian is usually available to assist if needed.
3.Learn/Using the equipment:
Familiarize yourself with the microfilm reader, and do not hesitate to ask a librarian for a quick tutorial—especially on how to load reels, adjust focus and zoom, navigate frames, and save or print images; always handle reels by the edges and avoid forcing the machine if it seems stuck.
4. Scanning/ viewing film
As you navigate the film—using fast-forward, rewind, and skimming headlines or section headers—take care not to overlook key details; be sure you’re also familiar with loading reels and adjusting focus, zoom, brightness, and scroll, as many modern machines offer helpful digital scan and save options.
5. Take notes/ save your work
Be sure to note citation details—including publication name, date, and page number—for every useful item, and when allowed, save digital copies using the reader’s scanning feature or print only what you need for future use.
6. Stay Organised:
Maintain a record of the reels you have examined and the information gathered to avoid duplication and monitor your progress, particularly in extended research projects.
