In April 1983 the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) surveyed selected members regarding the recruitment, compensation, role, and training of assistant, associate or deputy library directors. A total of 51 libraries (approximately 50% of ARL academic members) participated in the survey. It was found that associate director (AD)-level staff are responsible for overseeing day-to-day activities in a variety of units; the number of AD-level positions has increased; a search committee generally screens applicants with the director making the final selection; nationwide recruitment searches are generally conducted; there is considerable flexibility in salary administration for AD-level positions; directors are looking more to AD-level staff for information, advice, and ideas; developmental training of top-level staff is scarce; and recruiting and selecting AD-level staff with a mix of technical, interpersonal, and group skills is becoming important. This document presents a sample questionnaire with responses noted; an extensive series of job descriptions and appointment, promotion, and grievance policy statements concerning the AD position from eight libraries; a concise summary of related issues and trends; a four-item bibliography; and an evaluation sheet for this ARL Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC) kit. (ESR)