Based on information provided primarily by two existing state-based information services, this handbook presents a clear, practical look at possible activities, procedures, and requirements of search services for educators. Descriptions of the two services that serve as models--Oklahoma's Sooner Exchange for Educational Knowledge (SEEK) and Texas' Coordinating Information for Texas Educators (CITE)--are followed by detailed discussions of the products offered by search services; how resources are built for the services, including acquisition of materials, cataloging, and retrieval; how to market services; and what to consider when developing a budget. This handbook was compiled at the request of participants in a 2-day workshop in February 1980 entitled "Building State-Based Information Resource Centers." Sponsored by the SEDL (Southwest Educational Development Lab) Regional Exchange (SEDL/RX), the workshop featured presentations by staff members of Project SEEK and Project CITE, who provided complementary and contrasting views of their activities. Sample forms and records are included, as well as the shelf list categories for CITE and a brief description of the workshop. (Author/SW)