The concept of self study method in community development is discussed as it relates to anthropology, and a program conducted in Cairo, Illinois in 1956-57 is examined to determine if the self study goals were met. The ecological, historical, and geographical setting is given, along with attitudes and concerns of residents, ascertained from newspapers previous to the program. A running account of efforts in the program includes such problems as racial tensions and segregation, problems in industrial location, and leadership and community participation. The impact of the self study program was determined from personal interviews and questionnaires completed ten years after the self-study, observations, and reviews of newspapers and materials from the program. It was concluded that the year long study did have some effect on long range activities toward community goals, although immediate results were not readily apparent. Each self study goal is discussed as to the extent it was reached. The appendix includes the method used in gathering information from the newspaper, use of the questionnaire and summary of information gathered and published by the self study group. (author/pt)