This descriptive analysis and evaluation of the library system serving the city of Memphis and Shelby County traces progress since 1893 and examines existing services and facilities, covering the location, design, size, services and relationships of the main libraries and branches. Library service standards of the Central Library and regional and community branches are defined, and the system is assessed against these standards. Suggestions are made for improvements in management, personnel, book collections, community relations and building maintenance. Library needs are projected to 1990, based on population forecasts and growth of communities. A long-range library plan is outlined that recommends fourteen new branches between 1969 and 1990, to be located primarily in future growth areas. Specific recommendations are also made for expansion of the Main Library, with a new central library to be constructed by 1990. Appendices give operational and management policies, results of a user survey, and statistics on book collections. (JB)