With proper storage, microfilm that Preservation Resources creates can be expected to last 500 years. With the microfilm and the manuscript safely returned to the library, Preservation Resources scanned the print master negative in very high resolution 400 dpi grayscale. This captured both the printed words and the handwritten annotations. Over 500 pages were written to three sets of CDs and delivered to the library and researchers. In the summer of 1997, Northwestern University Library embarked on a pilot study to digitize three years of a West African weekly newspaper from microfilm.
Newspapers are a growing category of material preserved on microfilm.
The high acid content of newsprint leads to embrittlement in a matter of months or years, plus their large size creates storage issues for libraries. However, newspapers contain a wealth of current and cultural information. Digital files of newspapers may reach a broad audience, but can pose unique problems. Trouble areas include illustrations, low-quality printing, varying type sizes and styles, stories that continue on multiple pages, and layout that may cross gutters. In addition, there are the challenges of viewing large pages onscreen.