Microform Records
Introduction
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 State Records Office Microform Area is located in the darkened alcove between the Search Room Enquiry Desk and the Arts and Literature Library (see map).
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. For more information on retrieving records click here.
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 two microform reader printers, capable of making prints from the various microforms. One reader is linked to a standalone PC, capable of making scans from the microform for download to a USB removable drive (e.g. flashdrive, thumbdrive, etc).
Staff at the Search Room Enquiry Desk are happy to provide clients with assistance in using the microform readers and reader 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 3360 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 Microforms Register is a tool created by the State Records Office for determining whether specific consignments of records - previously identified by clients through the Search Room finding aids - are available for use in microform. 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.
The register is arranged sequentially by Accession/Consignment number and provides information such as format type, approximate date range, item numbers included on microform, and name of agency and description of records, where identified.
Copying of Microforms
Records that are available on microfilm or microfiche may be photocopied using the self-service reader printers in the SRO Microform Area. Copies are 44 cents per page (A4 or A3), including GST. State Records Office Enquiry Desk staff are happy to assist clients with using the reader printers.
Microform reader printers operate using a swipecard system that can be explained to clients by Search Room staff.
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 3360 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.
