Reformatting Reformatting is a viable alternative to deacidification of paper based collections, and an available solution to preseving brittle paper-based collections. Brittle materials will still remain brittle after deacidification. Some brittle papers may survive only one handling, due to their fragile condition.
Digitization is a reformatting option for providing increased access to materials.
Problems of rapid technological obsolescence of digital formats place digital reformatting in a precarious position for purposes of preservation. These include materials which possess artifactual, intrinsic, historic, or bibliographic value. There are a number of publications which address issues of selection of materials for refomatting, provide a general overview of undertaking preservation reformatting projects, as well as other useful information. Microfilm and Microfiche . Northeast Document Conservation Center, Technical Leaflet.