Historical Primary Sources/retired

Find and explore primiary sources for historical research.

Why Microfilm?

Although researchers are greatly assisted in searching and retrieval when newspapers go online, microfilmed newspapers remain an important part of the research process.  In microfilm, the newspaper is preserved in its original state so that researchers can see the placement of articles (front page or buried in the last section), original advertisements and photographs.

Libraries Service Center Request form

Use this form to request microfilm and microfiche from the LSC. In MSEL, use microfilm with the machines on A-level.

How to Use Microfilm Readers

Microfilm readers/printers are availbale at the AV Center on A Level of the Eisenhower Library.

During Fall and Spring semesters, the AV Center on A Level of the Eisenhower Library is staffed during these times:

  • Sunday through Thursday, 12noon - 8:00pm
  • Friday and Saturday, 1noon - 6:00pm

If you need help using the microfilm readers, please contact the AV Center staff to make an appointment.

Types

"Microfilm" is used broadly to mean any type of resource that's issued as a film roll, microfiche, or microcard. Most microfilm is stored off campus and must be requested either by using the "Request" button in the catalog record, using the Libraries Service Center Request form, or at the Audio Visual (A.V.) Department located on A-level.

Once retrieved, the film must be used in A.V. which has machines to read and print the film.

NOTE: Microcards cannot be printed, only read.

What is a Microfilm?

Photo of Microfilm by Deborah Fitchett from Flickr CC (Creative Commons License)