Microfilm to Born-Digital for Current Newspapers: A Case Study from the University of Oregon Libraries

Abstract

The University of Oregon (UO) Libraries have been microfilming and preserving Oregon’s newspapers as a public service since the 1950s. However, microfilm production has become increasingly unsustainable due to the rising costs associated with maintaining microfilming equipment and supplies, and researchers increasingly prefer digital access to newspapers as opposed to microfilm access. In order to mitigate costs and meet user needs, the UO Libraries has transitioned from microfilm to digital to provide preservation and access services for current Oregon newspapers. This case study traces the project from start to finish, outlining motivating factors for making the transition, stakeholder communication strategies, initial project plan and workflow, expected and unexpected challenges, current and forthcoming solutions, improved workflows, next steps, and lessons learned.