Microfilm and Information Retrieval.

This paper was prepared to provide a frame of reference to the role of microfilm within the information retrieval world and to provide an opportunity for evaluation of the use of microforms for active retrieval applications. The paper discusses the principles of information retrieval, considers subject and classification indexing, and describes elements of coding for manual and machine applications. The implications of information retrieval practices on microform information retrieval systems are considered. The author discusses costs, equipment, advantages and disadvantages, and other characteristics of manual, semiautomated, and automated information retrieval using aperture card, microfiche, roll and cartridge film, and film strip systems. Illustrations of various types of indexes show the differences in format of KWIC, KWOC, co-occurrence, and coordinate indexes. A 39-item bibliography is appended. (Author/JW)