How to use microform

The How to Use Microform workshop is designed to familiarize participants with microform technology. Microform refers to microfilm and microfiche formats, which are used to store large volumes of information in compact and durable formats. University of Manitoba Libraries' microform collection includes newspapers, government records, and other primary source materials. This workshop will provide an introduction to microform equipment, guidance on locating and accessing microform resources, and practical experience in using microform readers and scanners. It is ideal for researchers, historians, and library users seeking to explore archival materials stored in this format.

In this session, participants will:

• Understand Microform Technology: Define microform and identify types of materials commonly stored in microform formats.

• Locate Microform Resources: Navigate Library Search and finding aids to locate UM Libraries' microform materials and retrieve microform items.

• Operate Microform Equipment: Use microfilm and microfiche readers to view and magnify content, adjust settings such as focus, magnification, and contrast for optimal readability, scan pages from microform materials using digital microform scanners, and save scanned files in digital formats for research or citation purposes.

• Apply Microform Resources to Research: Evaluate the relevance of microform materials to specific research projects.

• Integrate microform content into bibliographies and academic work.

Presenter: Grace O'Hanlon, Liaison Librarian for Earth Sciences, Environment, Geography, Interdisciplinary Health Programs, and Natural Resources