The word microfiche comes from the French meaning file index card. Using microfiche is an efficient way to communicate information, save time, save money and solve many communications problems. The major benefits of microfiche are: reduced printing costs, quicker dissemination, faster retrieval, lower cost distribution, space saving, ease of handling, file uniformity, increased durability, rapid updating, and user acceptance. There are several standard sizes and formats of microfiche. In addition, there are variations and custome microfiche all combining to make this one of the most versatile of all microforms. From an applications and user point of view, microfiche is the fastest growing microform for both non-COM (Computer Output Microfilm) and COM-produced microfilm. The purpose of this publication is to provide all of the standard formats and salient characteristics of microfiche. (Author/NH)