Microfilm takes up 90% less space than paper documents. It's the safest way to preserve and protect information compared to
tapes and CD-ROMs. The microfilm has been reliable for decades. It's the safest, long lasting and most effective to protect
the sources from being altered, compared to digital data. It is thus used for off-site storage, document reconstruction and
image preservation.
Microfilm is an 'analog' medium, allowing it to be read and accessed anywhere. Changes made to the microfilm can be spotted
very easily and almost immediately, as it is a photographic medium. This advantage allows the microfilm to be used in
courtrooms.
It was invented in the 1939 by an Englishman by the name of John Benjamin Dancer. An English gentleman suggested information,
by the name of Sir David Brewster could be stored by using inkblot or an ink dot. This was known later as a microdot. During the year
1871, the Franco-Prussian War occurred and microfilm is being used to transmit information by the transport of a pigeon. It was used
the same way during the World War II. It was later used in 1928 to store blank cheques after a man called George McCarthy invented
the camera equipment, who became the President of the company 'Recordak ' soon after. It was discovered in the 1930's that microfilm
could store a lot of information on great literature and factual materials of the world. Second World War has a development of microfiche
and microfilm was forgotten until 1960's where it made its helpful appearance in the business market. It also helped to store the
information of archives captured in Europe and Asia after the World War II ended. Before making its appearance in business market,
it was centralized only in libraries, banks, military and engineering circles.
Traditionally, the microfilm is used for serial publications. Materials that are suitable for microfilming are stated below: