Microfilmed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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microfilmed
[ˈmaɪk.roʊ.fɪlmd ]
Definition
document preservation
To microfilm means to record documents onto a small film for the purpose of long-term preservation. This technique allows for easier storage and access to large volumes of information while minimizing physical space requirements.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The library microfilmed historical newspapers for archival purposes.
- She microfilmed the original documents to prevent damage.
- Many universities microfilm their theses to preserve academic research.
- The project aimed to microfilm all the local records from the past century.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The technique of microfilming was developed in the 19th century as a way to save space when storing large amounts of documents.
- The first known use of microfilming in libraries began in the 1930s, helping to preserve rare books and manuscripts.
- During World War II, microfilming became vital for military documents, allowing quick transport of large volumes of information on small film rolls.
Technology
- Microfilming technology paved the way for digital archiving in libraries, influencing how information is preserved and accessed today.
- The process involves reducing the size of images to about 1/25th of their original size, making it possible to store thousands of pages on a single reel.
- Microfilming was once common for newspapers as it preserved data before the rise of digital formats.
Library Science
- Microfilmed documents can last over a century if stored properly, making them a reliable source for historical research.
- Many libraries still maintain microfilm collections to provide access to older newspapers and journals that aren't available digitally.
- Microfilm readers allow users to view the tiny images, which can be printed or scanned for easy usage.
Cultural Impact
- Microfilming helped democratize access to knowledge, allowing even small libraries to preserve vast amounts of information.
- Art and literature preservation was significantly enhanced as microfilmed images of original works made them available across the globe.
- This method has sparked discussions about the fate of physical documents as more institutions shift towards digital preservation methods.
Environmental Aspect
- By reducing the physical space needed for document storage, microfilming can be seen as an early method of conserving resources.
- The shift from paper to microfilm in government and academic institutions reflects an environmentally conscious effort to minimize paper waste.
- Many organizations implemented microfilming to ensure the longevity of documents, thus contributing to sustainable archival practices.
Origin of 'microfilmed'
The term 'microfilm' originated in the early 20th century as a combination of the prefix 'micro,' meaning small, and 'film,' which refers to the thin layer of material used to capture images. The use of microfilm technology began around the 1920s, primarily as a way to preserve large volumes of documents in a compact form. Pioneering inventors and companies developed the technology for various applications, including archiving newspapers, photographs, and records. As it became more widespread, institutions like libraries and governments adopted microfilming extensively to safeguard aging materials and facilitate research access. The technique allowed for significant reductions in storage space while still providing a means to maintain historical records and documents. Over time, the method evolved with the advancement of film technology, leading to improved quality and accessibility of microfilmed materials.