This exploratory study gathered data on the communication behavior, resource utilization, and organizational activity of Mexican, Cuban, and Puerto Rican residents of Chicago. An interdisciplinary and integrative literature review synthesizing findings from the relevant literature suggested classes of variables and relationships for this investigation. A stratified cluster probability sample was used to select 400 Latinos who were interviewed by trained bilingual interviewers using a structured schedule. Findings indicate that both reading activity and public library use are positively and significantly related to participation in formal voluntary associations for the Latino population, while measures of media use developed here are not so related, even when controlled for ethnic subgroup membership or for formal educational level. On the other hand, adult education activity is a highly discriminating variable in predicting both reading activity and public library use for urban Latino "barrio" residents. Finally, the bond of Spanish language is a major determinant of interpersonal and impersonal communication activity. Implications for urban public library service to Latinos include: (1) need for personal contact with the unaffiliated who rely on local information resources; (2) development of material collections reflecting local Spanish language orientations; (3) public library integration with neighborhood networks of Latino groups and individuals; and (4) necessity for library staff of Latino background. (Author/JPF)