Rochester author Nicholson Baker's book "Double Fold: Libraries and the Assault on Paper" covers in detail the problems with microfilming and destruction of original books and documents. This is a book that should be read by anyone who has an interest in history or genealogy or is connected with a library or archives. According to Baker, millions of federal tax dollars have been used to "preserve" books and newspapers on microfilm, after which the originals are destroyed. Chris Andrle ----- Original Message ----- From: "Chester Historical Society" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Friday, August 10, 2001 4:39 PM Subject: Surrogate's Court records destruction! > I was at a talk given recently by the Chief Clerk of our local Surrogate's > Court in which mentioned that she is under orders to send out records for > microfilming. What is most disturbing is that these original documents > are then destroyed by the microfilm contractor and many of these > microfilmed records are not readable! > > Thus the information is lost for ever! > > What can be done to save these original documents? > > > Clifton Patrick > Chester Historical Society > Chester, NY 10918 > > Direct voice and fax: 845-469-7645 > 1915 Erie Station: 845-469-2591 >