The Reprography Division is engaged in the microfilming of old and current newspapers, periodicals, and archival records with the objective of preserving and strengthening the Library’s research resources and making them accessible to scholars. The Division has been providing reprographic services to researchers visiting the Library since 1968. At present, the Reprography Section holds approximately 23,000 microfilm rolls, including 5,000 duplicate microfilm rolls, and about 7,000 microfiche sheets.

MICROFILMING

Conventional technique for Microfilming through Camera

Latest technique for Microfilming through digital data

Microfilming remains the most reliable and long-term method for preserving archival records. Roll microfilms are stored on reels. Standard roll lengths are 30.5 metres (100 feet) for both 35 mm and 16 mm films.

One 35 mm roll can contain approximately 600 images.

One 16 mm roll can contain approximately 1,200 images.

Images are recorded as a continuous sequence along the length of the film, with lines of text aligned parallel to the film edges.

Techniques Used

Conventional technique: Microfilming through microfilm camera

Latest technique: Microfilming through Archive Writer (from digital data)

Processing and Duplicating

Processing of Microfilms

Processing of Microfilms: A processor is used to develop exposed microfilms and produce permanent images.

Duplicating of Master Records

Duplicating from Master Records: A duplicator is used to create copies of master microfilms for supply to the Library for scholarly consultation.

Quality Checking and Accessioning

Quality checking of Microfilms

Accessioning of Microfilms

Quality control of Master Record

Checking of old Microfilms for quality of control & Longivity

Old microfilms are periodically checked to ensure quality control and longevity. The technical quality of microfilms is crucial, as they serve as substitutes for original documents. Quality checks assess the archival condition of the film and detect residual chemicals accumulated during long-term storage in the repository. Microfilms are examined for scratches, spots, chemical residues, and other defects. If required, films are sent for rewashing to maintain prescribed archival standards.

Preservation of archival record on microfilms

Microfilming is the only option where we can protect our archival record for long time

Preservation of archival record on microfilms through sample checking, temp. & humidity control

With the expansion of collections, the Preservation Section was set up in 1970 to undertake systematic conservation of library and archival materials. The Section carries out a wide range of preservation and preventive conservation activities, including minor and tissue repairs, binding and repair of books, lamination, fumigation, guarding, flattening, stitching, and encapsulation. These sustained efforts ensure the long-term physical stability of the collections and their continued availability for research and reference. WORK AND SERVICES OF THE PRESERVATION UNIT The Preservation Unit is responsible for the systematic conservation and preventive care of library and archival materials to ensure their long-term physical stability and usability for research and reference. The Unit employs scientific methods and archival-quality materials in accordance with established conservation standards. Conservation and Repair Services The Unit undertakes a wide range of conservation treatments, including: Minor repairs and tissue repair of fragile documents Binding and repair of books using rexine, leather, and cloth Lamination and full pasting of weakened papers Guarding, flattening, stitching, and reinforcement of damaged documents Paper Conservation Practices Paper conservation is carried out through a systematic, multi-stage process to strengthen and stabilize brittle and fragile documents. Key practices include: · Pagination: Arranging and numbering documents to maintain their correct order and sequence. · Deacidification: Treatment carried out to stabilize paper, reduce deterioration, and improve longevity. · Repair: Mending of tears, cracks, and damaged areas to restore structural integrity of documents. · Adhesive Application: Use of stable and reversible adhesives to ensure safe and long-lasting repairs. · Strengthening of Fragile Papers: Special treatment applied to reinforce weak and brittle documents for continued use and preservation. Photograph Conservation and Encapsulation The Preservation Unit also undertakes conservation of photographic materials. Photographs are transferred from acidic albums and preserved through polyester encapsulation, which provides physical support and protection from environmental and biological damage. Specialized equipment is used to prepare polyester envelopes to ensure safe long-term storage.

Reprography Services

Reprographic Services are being provided to the scholars, institutions etc. in following fields

Photostate

Microfilm Scanning

Positive Microfilm Supplying

Photography of official events

The Reprography Division provides the following services to scholars, institutions, and Library users: · Microfilm Scanning: For Library scholars. · Supply of Positive Microfilms: For scholarly research purposes. · Photography of Academic and Official Events: Coverage of talks, public lectures, panel discussions, VIP visits, and other institutional events. · Design and Printing Support: Preparation of posters, brochures, leaflets, and other related materials. · Photography Services: Photography services at Picture Point Sangrahalaya for visitors. · Photocopying Services: At the Reprography Section for official work. At the Library for scholars.