Microfilming and Imaging

Certain records are microfilmed and/or digitally imaged for preservation or access purposes. The Archives participated in a cooperative project with the Genealogical Society of Utah in which mutually agreed upon records were prepared by the Archives and microfilmed by the Society. These were typically records with high genealogical value such as probate and divorce case files. Once the process was complete, we received a security copy of the microfilm for preservation purposes. We also microfilmed certain legislative records for preservation and distribution to research facilities.

Digital imaging will become a larger part of the process in the future. Because digital images continue to lack characteristics for long-term archival preservation, the primary benefit is enhanced access. More records will be imaged for mounting on our website so researchers can access the information without having to travel to Salem or conform to business hours.
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Camera mounted about 4 feet above a table with lights on movable arms to the side.
A planetary camera is used to microfilm records. The camera is mounted at the top of an arm seen in the center of the picture.