This overview of the ERIC system begins with a brief history of the system; a description of the types and numbers of materials contained in the database; sources of types of information for educators that are not processed by ERIC; and the various publications and reference materials produced by and for the system. The analysis of ERIC usage in the United States that follows is based on the final report of the Cost and Usage Study of the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) System, which was conducted by King Research in 1981. This analysis includes data on types of access points for the ERIC system and the services they offer; the level of knowledge of ERIC in the educational community; a qualitative evaluation of ERIC products and services; and ERIC coverage of materials related to disadvantaged groups. The components of the ERIC system and their functions are then described, including relationships among the various units and products and services designed to make ERIC more available to users. System operations, resource allocation, and costs are also discussed. The article concludes with a discussion of cultural, organizational, and policy concerns that would need to be addressed if the ERIC model were to be adapted to meet the needs of French educators. (BBM)