Microfilm is a roll of film that contains microphotographs. At W&L Library, much of our microfilm captures newspapers and periodicals. But books and primary sources are also preserved via this format. Historically, microfilm was helpful for storing a lot of information in a tiny amount of space. Microfilm is read using light and magnification, typically using a specialized reader.

If students need to access information found only on microfilm held by the University Library, a microfilm reader is available on Leyburn’s Main Floor. Questions can be directed to library@wlu.edu.

Watch tutorial videos about how to use the ViewScan 4 Microfilm Reader.