The University of Missouri Libraries maintain large historical collections on microfilm, which are deteriorating and infrequently used. In order to ensure future access to these materials while also reducing the cost, space, and staffing demands of this format, the University Libraries plan to transfer most of its microform holdings to the Center for Research Libraries (CRL), a long-standing central repository located in Chicago.

The University of Missouri has been a member of CRL since 1962; this membership allows our users to access CRL collections. CRL has been a reliable partner, providing rapid delivery of materials for extended loan periods and in some cases digitizing on demand. This transfer of materials will allow MU students and faculty ongoing access to the microfilm collections, although there will be some temporary interruption as materials are moved. The records for the materials will be added to the University Libraries’ online catalog, so they can be easily requested. The Libraries will maintain several microform and microfilm readers for patron use.

The University Libraries will retain master copies of University of Missouri dissertations and theses and all government documents received as part of the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP).

For more information, please contact Associate University Librarian Jeannette Pierce at pierceja@missouri.edu.