The idea that digitally formatting something is a one-time cost is not valid. Digitization is currently too software/hardware dependent to be a one-time expense. There are constant upgrades, migrations, etc. that become necessary. Microfilm, on the other hand is a one-time expense and can be used as a basis for digitization, so as far as expense, it is still the most cost-effective method of preservation. Sharon A. Pullen, CA Suffolk County Archivist Historical Documents Library Office of the County Clerk 310 Center Drive Riverhead, NY 11901-3392 Phone: 631-852-2015 Email: [log in to unmask]