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   Conversion of newspapers to digital images digital images

We can convert your newspapers or microfilm to "text searchable" digital images in PDF format.

Newspapers and newspapers on microfilm have always been a popular reference resource for library users. Converting either format to digital images offers the following benefits:

  • All rolls can be text searched. Research can be more complete and much faster.

  • Microfilm equipment maintenance and supply expense can be eliminated.

  • Valuable staff time assisting users with operating the microfilm equipment can be saved.

  • Microfilm converted to digital images can be made available via your library website. To see some examples of work that we have done for others please visit the sites below:

Saginaw City Directories

Plymouth District Library

Grosse Pointe Public Library




Frequently asked questions or concerns:

Q. How much does it cost to convert aperture cards to digital images?

A. Since there are several factors to be considered, we need to know more about your particular requirements. A brief discussion or e-mail exchange can produce cost estimates. The factors considered in determining pricing include the newspaper size, number of pages per issue, if microfilmed, condition of the film, number of rolls etc,

Q. Does Graphic Sciences have the experience and appropriate procedures in place to make sure that they can meet my quality and turnaround requirements?

A. Graphic Sciences has been providing imaging services for business and government since 1987. We have an excellent reputation for quality work at affordable pricing and have an impressive list of satisfied customers. When we know more about your particular requirements, we can match you with references that match your profile.

Q. How will I know you can meet my quality expectations?

A. Our job is to produce readable images that can be retrieved on demand. To produce high quality images at an affordable price, we must employ automation to the process. However, no two projects are alike. In some cases print or image quality can vary from image to image. All test images (and production images) are processed through our quality control process to be sure that "poor" images are re-scanned at a more appropriate setting.

There is no charge for the test and we send the images to you for your approval. Once that process is complete, you have a set of images that serves as a "benchmark" for the actual work performed.

Q. Is a formal contract required?

A. For smaller projects no. Our customers range from individuals that have as few as one roll or newspaper to projects consisting of millions of images. Larger projects are formalized by either contract drafted by the client or documented by a Statement of Work that we produce that simply outlines buyer and seller responsibilities.

Q. Is microfilm considered archival - how long will it last.

A. Microfilm is considered an archival media, meaning that it is expected to last 100 years. In fact properly processed and stored microfilm can be expected to last 500 years. However, prior to the early 80's the base media for microfilm was acetate. It has been discovered that acetate film will begin to deteriorate over time. Symptoms of deterioration are film that has become brittle or film that emits a "vinegar like" odor. Since newspapers hold valuable historical information, preserving them is essential.

Digital media is not considered archival and subject to the hazards of drive failure, obsolete software and playback media evolution. Microfilm collections converted to digital should be backed up by safely storing the original microfilm and if the conversion is made directly from the hard copy newspaper, microfilm images should be created from the digital images for long term preservation.

Q. Can you help us get the text searchable images on our website.

A. Yes, we have done that with many of our customers.

Q.How do I get the newspapers or microfilm to you?

A. We receive work from all over the country. We provide pickup and delivery and we also receive work via UPS, FedEx, and U.S Mail. If you do choose to have us produce sample images, and wish to send them via a delivery or mail service, please let us know when to expect them. We track all shipments and will contact you when it arrives.



document scanning – GSI provides scanning services for nearly anything: scan books, scan paper documents, scan aperture cards, scan microfilm, scan microfiche, scan architectural drawings, scan newspaper, scan engineering drawings, and much more.

OCR Searchable PDF document scanning – Convert your paper or archived media to digital searchable indexed media PDF (adobe portable document format): scan books, paper documents, aperture cards, microfilm, microfiche, newspaper, magazines, and much more. ... to searchable PDF or other text formats.

book scanning – GSI uses the best book scanner technologies available to make sure your document imaging needs are met. These book scanners can convert books to digital images that can be imported into document imaging systems of many types.

paper scanning – The best high speed scanning, quality digital imaging services are performed to make your documents available to you in an electronic filing system that meets your needs. Fast and accurate document imaging conversion processes are developed to fit your needs.

newspaper scanning – GSI can scan newspapers in various forms and methods such as newspaper to film, newspaper on film to digital images, newspaper to digital image, and index or OCR newspaper as needed.

reproduction services and reprographics – GSI can scan large scale drawings and scan newspaper in large quantity and deliver is various formats as required. We have service locations across the country to suit your needs.

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