Describes functions of Sahel Documentation Center established at Michigan State University (MSU) in September 1976, with support of grant from U.S. Agency for International Development to Department of Agricultural Economics, MSU Library, and MSU African Studies Center. Filming of the collection and its contents, including U.S. government…

Presents arguments in support of research library microfilm collections of archival sources for use by scholars. Historical background on microfilming and new technological developments enhancing use of microforms are discussed, as well as preservation and other benefits of microfilming. (10 references) (MES)