To search out areas for library cost reduction, a cost-effectiveness study of an overdue pickup operation was conducted. Labor and vehicle mileage costs and costs of planning the weekly pickup route were tabulated, and compared against the value returns from fines and the avoided cost of replacing lost items. Labor and mileage was determined at $28.04 per week, fine income at $14.84 and replacement savings at $25.25. It was also concluded that a large indirect savings resulted, since 60 percent of lost books were never replaced. The operation was judged to be cost-effective and recommended for continuation. (SK)