How to Convert Microfiche to Digital: Complete Scanning & Preservation Guide
Converting microfiche to digital format transforms aging analog archives into accessible, searchable, and preservable electronic files. Whether you manage historical records, legal documents, newspapers, or engineering drawings stored on microfiche, digitization provides modern accessibility while protecting valuable information from deterioration. This comprehensive guide covers professional scanning methods, DIY approaches, equipment specifications, resolution requirements, and cost analysis to help you choose the optimal microfiche digitization strategy.
Quick Overview: Microfiche Conversion Options
Professional Services: $0.15-$0.50 per frame, highest quality, HIPAA-compliant security
Dedicated Microfiche Scanner: $4,000-$8,000 equipment cost, ideal for ongoing projects
Consumer Film Scanner: $300-$500, suitable for small personal collections
Recommended Resolution: 300-600 DPI for standard documents, up to 600 DPI for fine detail preservation
Understanding Microfiche Technology
Before diving into conversion methods, understanding microfiche structure and information density helps you appreciate the digitization challenges and opportunities.
What is Microfiche?
Microfiche is a flat sheet of photographic film measuring approximately 105mm × 148mm (roughly 4" × 6") containing miniaturized photographs of documents arranged in a grid pattern. Each sheet can contain multiple document images called frames, with standard microfiche holding 60 to 98 frames depending on the reduction ratio.
The technology emerged in the mid-20th century as an efficient space-saving solution for long-term document storage. Libraries, government agencies, newspapers, medical facilities, and corporations adopted microfiche extensively between the 1960s and 1990s before digital systems became prevalent.
Microfiche Information Density
Understanding the mathematical relationship between physical microfiche dimensions and stored information illustrates why proper digitization requires specialized equipment:
Standard Microfiche Capacity:
\[ \text{Frames per Sheet} = \text{Rows} \times \text{Columns} \]
Common configurations:
\[ \text{98-frame fiche} = 7 \text{ rows} \times 14 \text{ columns} \]
\[ \text{60-frame fiche} = 5 \text{ rows} \times 12 \text{ columns} \]
Reduction Ratios
Microfiche uses reduction ratios to miniaturize documents onto film. The reduction ratio indicates how much smaller the image is compared to the original document:
Reduction Ratio Formula:
\[ \text{Reduction Ratio} = \frac{\text{Original Document Size}}{\text{Microfiche Frame Size}} \]
Common reduction ratios:
\[ 24\times \text{: Standard office documents} \]
\[ 42\times \text{: High-density storage} \]
\[ 48\times \text{: Ultra-high-density technical drawings} \]
For example, a 24× reduction ratio means that an 8.5" × 11" document becomes approximately 0.35" × 0.46" on the microfiche frame.
Types of Microfiche
| Microfiche Type | Dimensions | Typical Use | Frame Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Microfiche | 105mm × 148mm | General documents, library catalogs | 60-98 frames |
| COM Fiche (Computer Output Microfilm) | 105mm × 148mm | Computer-generated reports | 208-270 frames |
| Ultrafiche | 105mm × 148mm | Extremely high-density storage | 1,000+ frames |
| Microfiche Jacket | 105mm × 148mm | Updatable document collections | 60 frames (variable) |
Why Convert Microfiche to Digital?
Organizations and individuals convert microfiche to digital formats for multiple compelling reasons that address preservation, accessibility, and operational efficiency.
Preservation and Longevity
While microfiche can theoretically last 500 years under ideal storage conditions, real-world environments often fall short of these standards. Factors that accelerate microfiche deterioration include:
- Temperature fluctuations: Storage outside the ideal 60-70°F range accelerates chemical degradation
- Humidity variations: Humidity above 50% promotes fungal growth and emulsion separation
- Light exposure: UV radiation causes fading and emulsion damage
- Physical handling: Fingerprints, scratches, and dust accumulation from repeated use
- Vinegar syndrome: Acetate-based film releases acetic acid, causing brittle, warped film
Microfiche Lifespan Under Various Conditions:
\[ \text{Expected Lifespan} = \text{Baseline (500 years)} \times \text{Storage Factor} \]
Storage factor examples:
\[ \text{Ideal archival conditions: } 1.0 = 500 \text{ years} \]
\[ \text{Climate-controlled office: } 0.4 = 200 \text{ years} \]
\[ \text{Uncontrolled storage: } 0.1 = 50 \text{ years} \]
Enhanced Accessibility
Digital files provide instant access from any location with internet connectivity, eliminating the need for specialized microfiche readers that are increasingly difficult to maintain and operate. Search functionality transforms hours of manual scanning into seconds of keyword searches.
Cost Reduction
Digital storage eliminates physical storage space requirements, reduces insurance costs for valuable documents, and removes dependence on aging microfiche reader equipment.
Disaster Recovery
Digital backups stored in multiple locations (cloud storage, off-site servers, redundant drives) protect against catastrophic loss from fire, flood, or other disasters that could destroy irreplaceable microfiche collections.
Method 1: Professional Microfiche Scanning Services
For most organizations and individuals with significant microfiche collections, professional scanning services offer the optimal balance of quality, efficiency, security, and cost-effectiveness.
The Professional Scanning Process
1Collection Assessment & Planning
Professional services begin with evaluating your microfiche collection's size, condition, type, and specific requirements. This assessment determines optimal scanning parameters, indexing methodology, and project timeline.
2Secure Transportation
Reputable services provide secure pickup or mail-in options with tracking, insurance, and chain-of-custody documentation. Your microfiche is transported in climate-controlled vehicles to scanning facilities.
3Pre-Scan Preparation
Technicians organize, clean, and label microfiche sheets. Each sheet receives a barcode for tracking throughout the digitization process. Damaged or deteriorating fiche receives special handling.
4Scanner Calibration
Professional-grade scanners are calibrated for your specific microfiche type, density, and reduction ratio. This ensures optimal image capture quality across your entire collection.
5High-Resolution Scanning
Each frame is scanned at the appropriate resolution (typically 300-600 DPI) using specialized microfiche scanners with true optical resolution capabilities. Title strips are captured separately with modified lighting to handle different materials and densities.
6Post-Scan Processing
Images undergo automatic and manual quality control, including cropping, rotation correction, deskewing, contrast optimization, and background removal to produce clean, readable digital files.
7OCR and Text Recognition
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software converts scanned images into searchable text, enabling full-text search capabilities within your digitized archives.
8Indexing and Metadata
Professional services create detailed indexes based on title strip information, document dates, categories, and custom fields you specify. This metadata makes finding specific documents effortless.
9Quality Assurance Review
Experienced technicians review sample batches throughout the project and conduct final quality checks before delivery to ensure every image meets specified standards.
10Digital Delivery
Completed files are delivered in your chosen format (TIFF, JPEG, PDF, PNG) via USB drives, cloud transfer (Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive), FTP, or hosted in proprietary document management systems.
11Microfiche Return
Original microfiche is securely returned to you, or disposed of according to your specifications and compliance requirements.
Professional Service Cost Analysis
Professional microfiche scanning pricing varies based on project complexity, volume, resolution requirements, and additional services like OCR and indexing.
Professional Scanning Cost Formula:
\[ \text{Project Cost} = (\text{Frames} \times \text{Base Rate}) + \text{Setup Fee} + \text{Additional Services} \]
Where typical rates are:
\[ \text{Base Rate} = \$0.15 \text{ to } \$0.50 \text{ per frame} \]
\[ \text{Setup Fee} = \$200 \text{ to } \$500 \text{ (one-time)} \]
| Service Component | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Scanning (300 DPI) | $0.15-$0.25 per frame | Standard quality for most documents |
| High-Resolution (600 DPI) | $0.30-$0.50 per frame | Technical drawings, fine print |
| OCR Processing | $0.05-$0.10 per frame | Adds searchable text layer |
| Custom Indexing | $0.10-$0.25 per frame | Detailed metadata creation |
| Setup/Project Management | $200-$500 flat fee | One-time per project |
Professional Scanning Cost Calculator
Estimate your microfiche digitization project cost:
Advantages of Professional Services
✓ Professional Benefits
- Highest image quality with specialized equipment
- HIPAA-compliant secure handling for sensitive records
- Experienced technicians prevent scanning errors
- Comprehensive OCR and indexing capabilities
- Scalable for projects from hundreds to millions of frames
- Insurance and liability protection
- Faster completion for large collections
⚠ Considerations
- Higher cost than DIY for small collections
- Requires shipping or transporting microfiche
- Turnaround time typically 2-6 weeks
- Less control over day-to-day process
- Need to verify vendor security credentials
Method 2: Dedicated Microfiche Scanner
Organizations with ongoing microfiche digitization needs or those requiring complete control over the scanning process may benefit from purchasing a dedicated microfiche scanner.
Professional Microfiche Scanner Features
Dedicated microfiche scanners designed for professional use incorporate specialized features that consumer-grade equipment cannot match:
- True optical resolution: 200-600 DPI or higher without digital interpolation
- Wide magnification range: 7× to 54× or greater to handle various reduction ratios
- Automatic frame detection: Identifies and scans individual frames without manual positioning
- LED or halogen illumination: Consistent, flicker-free lighting for uniform image quality
- Motorized film transport: Automated advancement through microfiche sheets
- Integrated software: Image enhancement, cropping, rotation, format conversion, and batch processing
- Multiple output formats: TIFF, JPEG, PDF, PNG with customizable compression settings
Recommended Microfiche Scanner Models
| Scanner Model | Resolution | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ScanPro 3000 | Up to 600 DPI | $5,000-$7,000 | Mid-sized archives, libraries |
| Mekel MACH Series | 300-600 DPI optical | $4,500-$6,500 | General document scanning |
| Canon MS800 | 400 DPI | $6,000-$8,000 | High-volume production |
| e-ImageData ScanPro i9300 | 200-600 DPI | $5,500-$7,500 | Versatile multi-format scanning |
Total Cost of Ownership Analysis
DIY Scanner TCO (3 Years):
\[ \text{TCO} = \text{Equipment Cost} + (\text{Annual Labor} \times 3) + \text{Maintenance} + \text{Software} \]
Example calculation:
\[ \$6,000 + (\$15,000 \times 3) + \$1,500 + \$800 = \$53,300 \]
Assuming 1,000 hours labor @ $15/hr over 3 years
When to Purchase a Scanner
Buying a microfiche scanner makes financial sense when:
- You have more than 10,000 microfiche frames to scan over time
- Ongoing digitization needs will continue for multiple years
- Security requirements prevent sending documents off-site
- Immediate on-demand access to scanning capability is essential
- You have dedicated staff time available for training and operation
Scanner Purchase Considerations
Before investing in a microfiche scanner, carefully evaluate:
- Staff training requirements: Expect 8-16 hours for basic proficiency
- Space requirements: Scanners need dedicated workspace with proper lighting
- Maintenance costs: Budget $300-$500 annually for bulb replacement and calibration
- Software updates: Ongoing costs for software licenses and compatibility updates
- Time commitment: Manual scanning is significantly slower than professional bulk services
Method 3: Consumer-Grade Film Scanners
For individuals with small personal collections (under 1,000 frames) who prioritize budget over speed and professional quality, consumer film scanners offer an economical alternative.
Consumer Scanner Options
| Scanner Model | Max Resolution | Price | Microfiche Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epson Perfection V600 | 6400 × 9600 DPI | $250-$300 | Acceptable for personal archives |
| Canon CanoScan 9000F | 9600 × 9600 DPI | $300-$400 | Better resolution for microfiche |
| Plustek OpticFilm 8200i | 7200 DPI | $400-$500 | Film-specific with good clarity |
Consumer Scanner Limitations
Important Limitations
Consumer scanners have significant drawbacks for microfiche:
- Not designed for microfiche: Optimized for 35mm film negatives, not microform
- Manual positioning: Each frame requires careful manual alignment
- Extremely time-consuming: 10-30 minutes per microfiche sheet (versus 2-5 minutes with professional scanners)
- Inconsistent quality: Results vary significantly based on microfiche density and condition
- No automated frame detection: Every image requires individual scanning
- Limited software: Basic image capture without professional enhancement features
Time Investment Comparison
Estimated Scanning Time per Microfiche Sheet:
\[ \text{Consumer Scanner Time} = 15 \text{ to } 30 \text{ minutes per sheet} \]
\[ \text{Professional Scanner Time} = 2 \text{ to } 5 \text{ minutes per sheet} \]
For 100 microfiche sheets (98 frames each):
\[ \text{Consumer: } 100 \times 20 = 2,000 \text{ minutes} = 33.3 \text{ hours} \]
\[ \text{Professional: } 100 \times 3.5 = 350 \text{ minutes} = 5.8 \text{ hours} \]
Optimal Scanning Resolution Guidelines
Choosing the appropriate scanning resolution balances image quality, file size, and project requirements. Understanding the mathematical relationship between resolution, image detail, and storage needs helps you make informed decisions.
Resolution Standards for Microfiche
| DPI Resolution | Best Use Case | File Size (per frame) | Quality Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 DPI | General text documents, basic archives | 40-60 KB | Acceptable |
| 300 DPI | Standard office documents, newspapers | 90-120 KB | Good |
| 400 DPI | Small text, detailed images | 160-200 KB | Very Good |
| 600 DPI | Engineering drawings, maps, fine print | 360-450 KB | Excellent |
Resolution and Storage Calculations
Storage Requirements Formula:
\[ \text{Total Storage (MB)} = \frac{\text{Frames} \times \text{File Size per Frame (KB)}}{1024} \]
Example: 10,000 frames at 300 DPI (100 KB average):
\[ \text{Storage} = \frac{10,000 \times 100}{1024} = 976.6 \text{ MB} \approx 0.95 \text{ GB} \]
Storage Requirement Calculator
Calculate storage needs for your project:
Resolution Selection Guidelines
Recommended Resolution by Document Type:
- Standard office documents (10-12pt font): 300 DPI
- Newspapers and periodicals: 300-400 DPI
- Historical documents with small text: 400-600 DPI
- Engineering drawings and blueprints: 600 DPI
- Maps and architectural plans: 600 DPI
- Photographs on microfiche: 400-600 DPI
File Format Selection
Choosing the appropriate output format affects image quality, file size, compatibility, and long-term preservation.
Common Digital Output Formats
| Format | Compression | Best Use | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| TIFF | None (or lossless) | Archival preservation | ✓ Highest quality | ✗ Large files |
| Lossy (adjustable) | General distribution, viewing | ✓ Universal compatibility | ✓ OCR support | |
| JPEG | Lossy | Web viewing, quick access | ✓ Small files | ✗ Quality degradation |
| PNG | Lossless | Web applications, text documents | ✓ Good compression | ✓ Transparency support |
Format Recommendations
- Long-term archival: TIFF (uncompressed or LZW compression)
- Daily access and distribution: PDF with moderate compression
- Web-based document systems: PDF or PNG
- Space-constrained environments: PDF with higher compression or JPEG
- Text-searchable documents: PDF with embedded OCR text layer
OCR and Text Recognition
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) transforms scanned microfiche images from static pictures into searchable, indexable documents that dramatically improve accessibility and usability.
How OCR Works for Microfiche
- Image preprocessing: Software enhances contrast, removes artifacts, and optimizes the image for text recognition
- Text detection: Algorithms identify regions containing text versus graphics
- Character recognition: Individual characters are analyzed and matched against known fonts and patterns
- Text extraction: Recognized text is converted to machine-readable format
- Accuracy verification: Confidence scores indicate recognition reliability for each character
OCR Accuracy Factors
Expected OCR Accuracy:
\[ \text{OCR Accuracy} = \text{Base Accuracy} \times \text{Quality Factor} \times \text{Font Factor} \]
Typical accuracy ranges:
\[ \text{Clean typed text: } 95\text{-}99\% \text{ accuracy} \]
\[ \text{Poor quality or handwritten: } 60\text{-}80\% \text{ accuracy} \]
\[ \text{Mixed fonts and graphics: } 85\text{-}92\% \text{ accuracy} \]
Factors affecting OCR accuracy include:
- Original document quality: Clear, high-contrast text produces better results
- Scanning resolution: Minimum 300 DPI recommended for reliable OCR
- Font type and size: Standard fonts (Times, Arial) work better than unusual typefaces
- Document condition: Faded, stained, or damaged documents reduce accuracy
- Language complexity: Simple English text performs better than technical jargon or mixed languages
Indexing and Metadata Strategies
Proper indexing transforms a collection of digital images into an organized, searchable archive that delivers information efficiently.
Essential Metadata Fields
- Document title: Captured from microfiche title strip
- Date: Original document date or microfiche creation date
- Document type: Report, correspondence, newspaper, drawing, etc.
- Department/Category: Organizational classification
- Author/Creator: Document originator
- Frame number: Position on original microfiche sheet
- Keywords: Searchable terms describing content
- Project/Collection ID: Links related documents
Indexing Methods
Indexing Approach Comparison
Title Strip Indexing: Uses information from microfiche title strip for each sheet (batch indexing)
- Fast and economical
- Provides sheet-level organization
- Suitable when title strips contain comprehensive information
Frame-Level Indexing: Individual metadata for every document frame
- Maximum search precision
- Higher cost due to manual data entry
- Recommended for critical or frequently accessed archives
OCR-Based Indexing: Automated indexing from recognized text content
- Creates full-text search capability
- No manual data entry required
- Accuracy depends on OCR quality
Quality Control Procedures
Implementing rigorous quality control throughout the digitization process ensures your converted microfiche meets expectations and serves its intended purpose.
Pre-Scan Quality Checks
- Microfiche condition assessment: Identify damaged, deteriorating, or contaminated fiche requiring special handling
- Density testing: Measure film density to optimize scanner settings
- Sample scanning: Test a small batch before full production to verify settings
- Cleaning protocols: Remove dust, fingerprints, and debris with appropriate cleaning methods
During-Scan Quality Monitoring
- Random spot checks: Review sample images throughout the scanning process
- Consistent lighting verification: Ensure uniform illumination across all frames
- Focus accuracy: Check that images maintain sharp focus
- Frame alignment: Verify proper cropping and rotation
Post-Scan Quality Assurance
- Completeness verification: Confirm all frames were captured without gaps
- Image enhancement review: Assess contrast, brightness, and clarity adjustments
- OCR accuracy checking: Validate text recognition quality on sample documents
- Metadata accuracy: Verify indexing information matches source documents
- File integrity testing: Ensure digital files open correctly and are not corrupted
Quality Control Sampling Formula:
\[ \text{Sample Size} = \sqrt{\text{Total Frames}} \times \text{Confidence Factor} \]
For 95% confidence with 10,000 frames:
\[ \text{Sample} = \sqrt{10,000} \times 1.5 = 100 \times 1.5 = 150 \text{ frames to review} \]
Storage and Backup Strategies
Digitization is only valuable if your converted files remain secure, accessible, and protected against loss.
The 3-2-1 Backup Rule
Follow the industry-standard 3-2-1 backup strategy for critical digitized archives:
- 3 copies: Maintain three total copies of your digitized microfiche
- 2 different media: Store copies on two different storage types (e.g., hard drive + cloud, or NAS + tape backup)
- 1 off-site: Keep at least one copy in a geographically separate location
Storage Options Comparison
| Storage Type | Capacity | Cost per TB | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| External Hard Drive | 2-20 TB | $20-$30 | Primary local backup |
| Network Attached Storage (NAS) | 4-100+ TB | $50-$100 | Multi-user access, RAID protection |
| Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) | Unlimited | $10-$20/month per TB | Off-site backup, accessibility |
| LTO Tape Backup | 6-18 TB per tape | $5-$10 (plus drive cost) | Long-term archival, compliance |
Legal and Compliance Considerations
Document Retention Requirements
Various industries face specific legal requirements for document retention and preservation:
- Healthcare (HIPAA): Medical records must be retained 6-10 years depending on state law
- Financial institutions: Tax records, loan documents, and financial statements require 7-10 year retention
- Legal firms: Case files and client records often require permanent retention or 10+ years
- Government agencies: Public records follow specific retention schedules mandated by law
Chain of Custody Documentation
When digitizing records for legal or compliance purposes, maintain detailed chain of custody documentation including:
- Date and time of microfiche receipt
- Individuals who handled the documents
- Security measures during transport and storage
- Scanning parameters and equipment used
- Quality control verification records
- Date of original microfiche return or destruction
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Deteriorated or Damaged Microfiche
Problem: Aging microfiche exhibits vinegar syndrome (acetate degradation), fungal growth, scratches, or emulsion separation.
Solutions:
- Professional restoration services can chemically stabilize deteriorating film before scanning
- Advanced scanner settings and post-processing can compensate for some damage
- Document condition in metadata to provide context for reduced quality
- Prioritize scanning the most deteriorated fiche first before further degradation
Challenge 2: Mixed Reduction Ratios
Problem: Collections contain microfiche with varying reduction ratios requiring different scanner settings.
Solutions:
- Sort microfiche by reduction ratio before scanning to minimize setting changes
- Use scanners with automatic magnification detection
- Document reduction ratios in metadata for future reference
Challenge 3: Poor OCR Accuracy
Problem: OCR software struggles with faded text, unusual fonts, or low-quality originals.
Solutions:
- Increase scanning resolution to 400-600 DPI for challenging documents
- Apply image enhancement (contrast, sharpening) before OCR processing
- Use multiple OCR engines and compare results for critical documents
- Consider manual verification for mission-critical text accuracy
Challenge 4: Large-Scale Project Management
Problem: Tracking thousands of microfiche sheets through the digitization process while maintaining organization.
Solutions:
- Implement barcode tracking for each batch or box of microfiche
- Use project management software to monitor progress and identify bottlenecks
- Establish clear naming conventions for digital files before starting
- Create detailed documentation of the entire workflow for consistency
Decision Framework: DIY vs Professional Services
Use this comprehensive comparison to determine the optimal approach for your microfiche digitization project:
Choose Professional Services When:
- Collection exceeds 1,000 microfiche sheets (98,000+ frames)
- Documents contain sensitive or confidential information requiring HIPAA/SOC2 compliance
- Project timeline is tight (weeks rather than months)
- Budget allows for per-frame pricing ($0.15-$0.50/frame)
- OCR accuracy and professional indexing are critical
- Staff lacks time or expertise for in-house scanning
- Microfiche is deteriorating and requires immediate action
Choose DIY Scanning When:
- Collection is small (under 500 sheets for consumer scanners, under 5,000 for professional scanners)
- Ongoing digitization needs justify equipment purchase
- Security requirements prevent off-site document handling
- Budget constraints make professional services prohibitive
- Timeline is flexible (months to years)
- Dedicated staff time is available for training and operation
- Quality requirements are moderate (personal archives, non-critical documents)
Cost-Benefit Analysis Calculator
Compare Professional vs DIY Costs
Enter your project parameters:
Future-Proofing Your Digital Archives
Ensure your digitized microfiche remains accessible for decades by following preservation best practices:
File Format Longevity
- Choose open standards: TIFF and PDF/A formats have the best long-term support
- Avoid proprietary formats: Software-specific formats may become obsolete
- Document format specifications: Record compression settings, color space, and version information
Metadata Preservation
- Embed metadata within files: Use EXIF for images, XMP for PDFs
- Maintain external metadata databases: Create searchable catalogs separate from image files
- Use standard schemas: Dublin Core, MARC, or other recognized metadata standards
Regular Migration Strategy
Recommended Data Migration Schedule:
\[ \text{Migration Interval} = \min(5 \text{ years}, \text{Media Lifespan} \times 0.6) \]
This formula ensures data is moved to new storage before media reaches 60% of expected lifespan
Key Takeaways
Converting microfiche to digital format preserves irreplaceable information while dramatically improving accessibility, searchability, and security. Whether you choose professional scanning services, invest in dedicated equipment, or use consumer-grade solutions, the key to success lies in careful planning, appropriate technology selection, and rigorous quality control.
Critical success factors include:
- Selecting appropriate resolution (300-600 DPI) based on document type and intended use
- Implementing comprehensive OCR and indexing for searchability
- Following the 3-2-1 backup rule for data security
- Documenting metadata thoroughly for long-term accessibility
- Choosing file formats with long-term preservation in mind
- Conducting thorough quality control throughout the digitization process
For collections exceeding 1,000 sheets or containing sensitive documents, professional services typically offer the best combination of quality, speed, and security. Smaller personal archives may benefit from DIY approaches when time constraints are flexible and budget is limited.
Next Steps: Begin by assessing your microfiche collection size, condition, and criticality. Request quotes from professional scanning services to establish baseline costs, then compare against equipment purchase options if you have ongoing digitization needs. Most importantly, don't delay—microfiche continues to deteriorate, making preservation increasingly difficult over time.