Identifies factors undermining library phenomenon of "ultrafiche" collection. Proposal of concept by Rand Corporation (1968), publication of two prototype collections (Library Resources Inc.'s "Library of American Civilization," and National Cash Register's "PCMI Library Collections"), and forces having adverse effect on viability and longevity of…

Addresses some lingering problems with production and use of color microforms, e.g., reliable microfilm emulsion, color temperature, and image fading; and reports on recent advances in color stability and accuracy and international efforts to standardize production. (MBR)

Traces origins of the Genealogical Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon), highlighting microfilm technology, equipment used, development of the 16mm camera, film processing, quality control, filming techniques, specialized microfilming, archival storage (The Granite Mountain Records Vault), the genealogical library…

Considers the future of microforms by surveying the history of their use in libraries; reviewing the literature about them; and comparing them with electronic databases, full text delivery, and laser disks. It is concluded that microforms will continue to be the primary providers of significant but rarely used retrospective materials. (EM)