AbstractThe Libraries and Information Systems Center of Bell Telephone Laboratories conducted a study to evaluate microfiche as a possible alternative to paper copy for distributing technical information. The two objectives of this study were to determine the acceptability of the microfiche format as a medium for reading technical reports among a representative group of engineers and scientists and to measure the effects of using this medium on the reading habits of the group.For a period of approximately nine months, a test group received microfiche copies of technical reports for their personal retention in place of paper copies on loan. Paper copies were available as a secondary response.At the conclusion of the study, only a narrow majority of those participating answered affirmatively when asked if they would agree to receiving microfiche in the future. Analysis of other data indicated that (1) the reading habits of the scientists and engineers were not adversely affected by this format and (2) with careful planning, microfiche could be made generally acceptable to Bell Laboratories technical staff.