The relationship between public economic support of libraries and general economic conditions is explored, drawing on interviews with state librarians and their deputies in seven Southern states. In these states, libraries have traditionally been supported, although frequently with lower per capita amounts than in other parts of the country. Librarians in southern states appear to have been strong supporters of the Library Services and Construction Act, and southern legislators have been important on the national level in helping libraries. Library aid in these states remains below that of other geographic areas, but has increased many times over the years. The survey indicates that there is a link between support of higher education and support of libraries. In general, state librarians felt that a prosperous economy drives library aid, and not the reverse, as the author had postulated. Most of these librarians thought that there is a distinct tie-in between libraries and economic development. No differences in library support based on the party affiliation of the governor were apparent to these state librarians. Ten tables and one figure illustrate the discussion. (Contains 26 references.) (SLD)