A general survey of U.S. schools and universities in 1965 suggests that 50 percent of them do not feature proper language laboratory facilities. Aimed at prospective laboratory buyers and those seeking equipment replacements, the article analyzes the laboratory's mechanical aspects, accessible locations, physical facilities and equipment arrangement, uses of audiovisual aids, program planning, and decision making, all in terms of users' needs. A list of standard texts on language laboratories is provided, and there is a sketch of a proposed laboratory. (DS)