Microform reproductions of archival records have been created in an effort to help preserve the original records and improve access for clients. Generally only the most fragile and/or the most commonly used records have been placed on microfilm.
State Records Office records may be contained on any of the following types of microforms:
- 16 mm roll film
- 35 mm roll film
- microfiche
- 35mm aperture cards
- 35 mm slides and transparencies
The main advantage of microform records is that in most cases clients will be able to access the records directly from the Microform Area of the Search Room, without being required to complete a retrieval slip.
Viewing Microforms
The majority of SRO's microform records are stored in the row of metallic cabinets along the Microform Area wall and are ordered according to Accession/Consignment number. Records available on microform that are not contained in the cabinets will need to be requested as per the usual retrieval process. More information on retrieving records can be found on the Retrieval Times And Requests page.
Access to microform records is on a self-service basis between normal State Records Office opening times - 9.30am to 4.30pm weekdays.
Two types of microform readers are provided in the Microfilm Area:
Microfilm Readers for 16mm and 35mm roll film
Microfiche Readers for fiche, aperture cards, slides and transparenices
In addition to the microform readers there are also microform scanners, capable of making scans from the microform for download to a USB removable drive (e.g. flashdrive, thumbdrive, etc). Two scanners are also linked to printers. Costs for printing can be found on our fees and charges page.
Staff at the Search Room Enquiry Desk are happy to provide clients with assistance in using the microform readers and scanner/printers.
After Hours Access
It is possible to access microform records outside of State Records Office opening hours in the Battye Library Microform Area, by completing a retrieval slip to have the required microforms made available. Microforms requested for after hours access may be viewed in the Battye Library between 5.00pm and 8.00pm Monday to Thursday and between 10.00am and 5.00pm on weekends.
A maximum of ten microform items per person can be requested for after hours access at any one time. Microforms reserved for after hours access may be collected from the Battye Library Enquiry Desk.
After hours access for microforms can be arranged either by completing a call slip in person or by telephoning the Search Room Enquiry Desk on (08) 9427 3600 and supplying the relevant details. Requests to view microforms after hours need to be received by 4.15pm on the day required for weeknight viewing or by 4.15pm Friday afternoon for weekend requests.
Microforms Register
The majority of records available in microform can be accessed in the Microform Area, without the need for awaiting material to be retrieved, as per records in original format. Clients should check the Series detail page on AEON to see if copies are available.
The Microfilm register by agency is a tool created by the State Records Office for determining whether specific consignments of records are available for use in microform.The register is arranged sequentially by name of the agency, and consignment number and provides information such as format type, approximate date range, item numbers included on microform, and description of records, where identified.
Copying of Microforms
In some instances it may be possible to purchase duplicates of the actual microforms. Both microfilm reels and individual microfiche can be purchased in this manner. For more information on purchasing microforms contact State Records Office Enquiry Desk staff on (08) 9427 3600 or email sro@sro.wa.gov.au.
Digital copies of microforms may be made on a selfserve basis to a USB removable drive. Please ask Search Room staff for more information.