An invitational conference, attended by 200 library executives, practitioners and persons from allied fields, was held to explore progress and problems in library development in New York State. Special consideration was given to: (1) the application of data processing techniques for reference and research and (2) the improvement of information retrieval through cooperative use of public and private resources. Papers and panel discussions covered universal education and libraries; transferring knowledge for use; science and industry; library cooperation; automation and data processing; and national, state, regional and local organization for library services. (JB)