Types of Microforms
“Microform” or “microformat” is a general term used to describe the microfilm, microfiche, or microprints used for the storage of documents that have been photographed and reduced in size in order to conserve space or to preserve materials that deteriorate rapidly.
The two most common microform types are microfilm and microfiche. Microfilms are long strips of transparent plastic, containing photographed pages, rolled onto reels. Microfiches are rectangular sheets of transparent plastic, containing rows of images of printed pages.
Microform Collections at IUP
Microform collections are important repositories of historically significant, rare, or damaged original sources compiled from a wide range of archives and historical collections to make materials more accessible. IUP Libraries’ collection of microforms is discoverable through the Library Catalog.
Ways to Access/View Microforms
If you are an IUP student, staff, or faculty member, you have two options:
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You can come to the library to browse and/or scan microforms during select hours with an appointment. Complete the Microform Appointment Request to get started. During your appointment, a library staff member will have the microform ready and will provide basic instructions. We cannot accommodate walk-ins at this time.
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Library staff will scan microfilm for you and deliver up to 50 pages electronically as a PDF. Complete an ILLiad Request.
Non-IUP affiliates who are able to visit the Library may complete the Microform Appointment Request to schedule an appointment. If you are not able to visit in person, you can request microforms through your local public library or historical society’s InterLibrary Loan (ILL) service.