What are Microforms?
Microforms are photographic reproductions, typically of print material, which have been reduced in scale from that which is readable by the unaided eye and transferred to either transparent or opaque materials. Most of the microforms in the University of Chicago Library collection are microfilm and microfiche, which are transparencies.
All microforms require special equipment to view, print, or scan them.
Using Microforms
Requesting Microforms
Most UChicago Library microforms may be requested in the Library Catalog via Paging & Pickup and checked out on standard loan.
Booking a Microform Scanner
Once you've picked up microforms, you may book one or more times to use a microform scanner in Regenstein.
As you prepare for your visit to the Library, please review and follow the Library's policies for reserving and using seats and the UChicago Health Pact.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Library staff are unable to provide assistance with the microform equipment.
Please review the instructions below for guidance before your visit.
Using the Microform Scanners
Once you have booked a seat at a microform scanner, see the instructions below.
The Library provides ScanPro 3000 digital microform scanners, which work with all microformats.
ScanPro 3000 Instructions
- Launch the ScanPro software using the Desktop icon.
- In the "Film Selection Wizard" screen, select the appropriate format (e.g. 35mm microfilm, negative microfiche, etc.).
- Follow the on screen instructions to load the microform (do not attempt to move the auto-carrier manually).
- Use the online controls to view, scan, print, etc. (refer to Quick Start Guide for more information).
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ScanPro Quick Start GuideOverview of graphic button controls for the ScanPro software
The following video from Brigham Young University Library provides an overview of the ScanPro 3000 equipment.
The video should serve the needs of most users, but for advanced features, review the manufacturer's demo (40 minutes).
