This study addresses itself to several questions important to most public libraries. How should the library allocate its book budget? What kinds of books should it tend to buy? What types of households use the library? Why do some households not use the library? What is the cost of the various services provided by the library? What specific steps can the library take to improve its services? What are the library's options in choosing among the different circulation systems? For how long should the library allow books to be checked out? How frequently should overdue notices be sent out? Is an investment in a security system worthwhile? These questions were studied in the context of the Beverly Hills (California) Public Library. A methodology for determining answers to these questions, as well as to other questions that arose during the investigation was developed. Although answers will vary from library to library, the methodology is quite general and should prove useful at many public libraries. The user survey and community survey questionnaires, and a bibliography are appended. (Author/SJ)