These remarks concern scanning of old paper documents. They do not apply to the scanning of old photographs. If the scanner has a source option, select "black and white document" instead of any of the photographic selections, , i.e., don't select "black and white photograph." Adjust the contrast threshold for maximum contrast. If there is bleed through, it can be minimized by backing the document with a sheet of black paper. This is an old trick that works well. Use of a green or yellow sheet may improve legibility of faded ink, as others have suggested. To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html