udson
Microimaging meets or exceeds ANSI/AIIM standards for archival quality
microfilm. Preservation microfilming utilizes a 35mm microfilm reel
as its preferred format. We also adhere to the standards and specifications
from the Library of Congress, the Research Library Group and the New
York State Archives and Records Administration.
Microfilming is done on planetary cameras, including Zeutschel and
Gratek Congress I. Book cradles are available
to allow bound volumes to be microfilmed without disbinding. Engineering
size documents can be accommodated using the Kodak
MRG.
Three level blipping capability or sequential frame numbers can be
included during the filming process to facilitate retrieval of the microfilmed
images. This indexing reference information can easily be input into
a database, or appended to the finding aid for the collection.
The silver halide microfilm is processed in an Allen
deep-tank processor, which assures consistency in the replenishment
of chemicals and spot-free drying of the film. Weekly microfilm samples
are sent to an independent laboratory for Methylene Blue Testing (residual
thiosulfate) to assure archival quality. Hudson Microimaging participates
in the Kodak Microfilm Processing Program. Sample films and testing
records are sent to Kodak for further evaluation and inspection. Kodak
thus certifies our lab on a monthly basis.
All microfilm is wound on inert plastic reels, bound with acid-free
identification bands and is boxed and labeled in acid-free, lignin storage
boxes. Splicing is done with ultrasonic splicers exclusively.
Preservation Microfilm services also include archival silver film duplication
(direct duplicate or positive copying using reel-to-reel printing techniques).
We also "remaster" microfilm collections that are deteriorating
due to redox contamination or vinegar syndrome. Hudson Microimaging's
technical staff can evaluate existing acetate based microfilm collections
providing written documentation concerning the level of acetic acid
or other conditions jeopardizing the longevity of the microfilm.
Hybrid systems are becoming more and more popular with Hudson Microimaging's
preservation microfilm clients. These systems use microfilm for the
archival (500 year life expectancy) storage combined with the access
advantages of CD-ROM, DVD, or other electronic storage media. The collection
is first microfilmed using preservation microfilming techniques and
then the microfilm is digitized. For more information see 'Digital
Conversion'.
If a collection has already been digitized, Hudson Microimaging can
output the digital images to 35mm or 16mm microfilm with a 500-year
life expectancy.
