Up from the Depths: Return of the 16 mm Film, or How to Weed Your Film Collection

Abstract

Moving images are essential resources for teaching and research in higher education. Libraries provide access to these resources in many formats such as U-matic tapes, 16 mm film, VHS, DVD, and streaming video. Changing moving image technologies and preferences of faculty and students present challenges for librarians in managing media collections, as libraries must make difficult decisions about weeding legacy moving image collections. The authors present a case study and practical advice on developing guidelines for collaborative, thoughtful withdrawal of 16 mm films, lessons learned, and scalable recommendations for how libraries and archives can best maintain media collections unique to their campus.