Noting that very few reading programs exist in nursing homes, a study surveyed the need for and content of reading services for residents of skilled and intermediate care facilities. The facilities responding to the survey represented 1,800 residents and provided information on their reading activities, available resources, special equipment, individual and group programs, and the participation, problems, and needs related to these programs. The majority of respondents considered reading services to be important to the residents. Approximately one third of the residents were identified as being able to read independently and it was felt that many of the older residents could benefit from oral reading to provide mental stimulation, comfort, and companionship. However, reading activities were generally not promoted by staff, family members, or visitors. Just over half the facilities had libraries, but were lacking in larger print books or special equipment to enhance print size. The responsibility for the delivery of reading services belonged to the activity director with less than a third receiving assistance from other staff members or volunteers. The results suggest that a designated full- or part-time nursing home librarian, managing a core of volunteers specifically for reading aloud to residents, could be an asset to resident care and morale. (HTH)